Teeth cleaning, also called scaling and polishing, is a dental appointment that removes plaque, hardened tartar and surface stains that brushing at home cannot shift. It suits almost everyone, adults and children, and is usually recommended every 6 months to help keep teeth and gums healthy. At 7 Dimensions Medical Center (7DMC) our dentists carry out teeth cleaning at our Jumeirah (Umm Suqeim 3) and Al Barsha (Arjan) branches, with a check of your teeth and gums at the same visit.
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth every day. If it is not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which clings to the teeth along and under the gum line. Only a dental professional can remove tartar. Left there, it can irritate the gums, causing bleeding and bad breath, and over time it can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
A professional cleaning has two parts. Scaling uses an ultrasonic scaler, which vibrates and sprays water, and fine hand instruments to remove tartar from the teeth and just under the gums. Polishing smooths the tooth surface and lifts stains from coffee, tea and smoking, so plaque finds it harder to stick.
| Type | What it involves | Often needed for |
|---|---|---|
| Routine scale and polish | Removing plaque, tartar and stains above and just below the gum line | Most people, every 6 months |
| Stain removal (air polishing) | A fine jet of powder and water to lift stubborn surface stains | Heavy coffee, tea or smoking stains |
| Deep cleaning (root planing) | Cleaning deeper below the gum line, one section of the mouth at a time, with local anaesthetic | Gum disease with deeper pockets |
| Children's cleaning | A gentle polish, often with fluoride varnish | Children (see our kids dentist page) |
A professional cleaning suits:
You may need extra care, or to wait, if you:
I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Giovanni Sleiman! He did a thorough, gentle, and meticulous job cleaning my teeth, making sure every detail was taken care of. What I appreciated most was how clearly he explained the entire process and what my teeth specifically need moving forward. Truly professional and attentive care.I couldn't be more satisfied. Highly recommended!Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
The medical centre is very clean, tidy, and modern. I came in today for a dental cleaning, and Dr. Roaa was on another level. She was kind, professional, and charming. She explained everything clearly, including how I should take care of my teeth and brush them properly…Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
Dr Jouliana was fast & efficient with teeth cleaning. Quite experienced and detailed in explanations, would highly recommend.Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
Talk to our team at Jumeirah or Al Barsha. We will answer your questions and help you choose the right next step.
Your teeth usually feel smoother and look cleaner straight after the appointment, and slightly red or bleeding gums usually calm down within a week or two as inflammation settles. Most people need a cleaning every 6 months. If you have gum disease, tartar builds up quickly or you wear braces, your dentist may suggest every 3 to 4 months. Results vary from person to person and depend on brushing and cleaning between the teeth at home.
Teeth cleaning is a routine, low-risk treatment. Your teeth may feel sensitive to cold for a day or two, especially where tartar covered the roots, and your gums may be tender or bleed lightly. Some people find scaling uncomfortable; numbing gel or local anaesthetic can help. After a deep cleaning, there may be more soreness, and gums can shrink slightly as swelling goes down, which may make some teeth feel more sensitive. Tell your dentist about any medicines and medical conditions before your cleaning.
The cost of teeth cleaning in Dubai usually ranges from AED 200 to AED 800 per session, depending on how much tartar there is, whether stain removal or a deep clean is needed and the clinic. Typical ranges: Routine scale and polish, AED 200 to AED 600; Scale and polish with air polishing (stain removal), AED 400 to AED 800; Deep cleaning (root planing), per section of the mouth, AED 400 to AED 800. These are typical market prices across Dubai clinics, not a 7DMC price list. At 7DMC, your exact price is confirmed at your consultation, before any treatment.
Many dental insurance plans cover one or two routine cleanings a year, sometimes with a co-payment. Check your policy, or ask us when you book.
Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from the teeth and just under the gums. Polishing then smooths the teeth and removes surface stains.
It is usually called a scale and polish, scaling and polishing, a dental cleaning or a hygiene appointment. A deeper clean for gum disease is called scaling and root planing.
Every 6 months for most people. If you have gum disease, braces or build up tartar quickly, every 3 to 4 months may be better.
Most people find it comfortable, with some vibration and water spray. Sensitive areas can be numbed, so tell your dentist if you feel discomfort.
It removes surface stains, so teeth often look brighter, but it does not change the natural colour of your teeth. For that, ask about whitening.
7DMC offers teeth cleaning at two branches: Jumeirah (Umm Suqeim 3), opposite Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Al Barsha (Arjan, Al Barsha South), both with parking.
