If the words “dental cleaning” make you nervous, you’re not alone. At Dentisterie Montréal, our hygienists use a calm, tell‑show‑do approach so you always know what’s happening and why. Here’s a transparent, step‑by‑step walkthrough—designed for anxious patients, first‑time visitors, and curious families.

1) Welcome, health update & gentle screening

We start by reviewing your medical history and any concerns (sensitivity, bleeding gums, recent dental work). A hygienist does a quick visual check using a mouth mirror and tiny explorer to look for plaque, tartar, and early signs of cavities. If needed, we may take low‑dose images (X‑rays) to see areas between teeth and below the gumline.

Tools you’ll see: mouth mirror, explorer, air/water syringe, suction (the “little vacuum”).

2) Measuring your gum health

Next comes periodontal charting—light measurements around your teeth with a slim periodontal probe. This helps us track gum health and spot early gum disease (gingivitis) before it becomes more serious.

What you’ll feel: gentle taps, not pokes. If something is tender, tell us—we’ll slow down and adjust.

3) Plaque & tartar removal (scaling)

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms daily. When it hardens, it becomes tartar (calculus), which a toothbrush can’t remove. Your hygienist carefully removes these deposits to prevent cavities and gum disease.

• Ultrasonic scaler: You’ll hear a humming sound and feel a light vibration plus cool water. This breaks up larger tartar pieces efficiently.
• Hand scalers (curettes): These curved instruments gently fine‑tune around each tooth and along the gumline for a smooth finish.

What you’ll feel: pressure and vibration—not sharp pain. Sensitive areas? We can use a numbing gel or take breaks.

4) Polish, floss & a refreshing rinse

After scaling, we polish with a soft prophy cup and a mildly gritty paste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel. Then we floss to check contacts and finish with a rinse so your mouth feels fresh and clean.

Why polish matters: A smoother surface makes it harder for plaque to stick, keeping your smile cleaner between visits.

5) Fluoride: a quick shield for your enamel

We often recommend a fluoride varnish or gel—especially for kids, patients with sensitivity, or those at higher risk for cavities. Fluoride helps remineralize enamel, strengthening weak spots and reducing sensitivity.

What to expect: A small amount is brushed on and sets quickly. We’ll share simple after‑care tips (like when to eat or brush) based on the product used.

6) Dentist check & personalized home‑care plan

Your dentist reviews your teeth, gums, and any images, then discusses findings and answers questions. You’ll leave with tailored tips: which toothbrush and floss (or water flosser) suit your mouth, how to clean around braces or bridges, and whether a sensitive‑teeth toothpaste could help.

What those tools (and sounds) actually do

• Ultrasonic scaler: Vibrations + water spray to gently break up tartar.
• Hand scalers/curettes: Precision instruments for detailed cleaning.
• Saliva ejector & high‑volume suction: Keep you comfortable and dry.
• Air/water syringe: Rinses and clears away debris for better visibility.
• Periodontal probe: Tiny ruler to track gum health over time.

Anxiety‑easing tips from our hygienists

• We go at your pace. Use a hand signal if you need a pause.
• Tell‑show‑do. We explain and show tools before we use them.
• Comfort options. Numbing gel for tender spots, neck pillows, and music help many patients relax.
• Short, positive visits for kids. Familiarity builds confidence.

FAQs

Does a cleaning hurt?
Most patients feel pressure or vibration, not pain. If you’re sensitive, let us know—we’ll use desensitizing strategies and move gently.

How long does it take?
A typical visit lasts 45–60 minutes, depending on tartar build‑up and your gum health.

Do I need fluoride every time?
It depends on your cavity risk and sensitivity. We’ll recommend what’s right for you or your child.

What if I have gum disease?
We may suggest a deeper cleaning (periodontal therapy) in focused areas and a customized maintenance schedule to get gums healthy again.

Ready for a gentler clean?

If you’ve been putting off a visit, we’re here to make it comfortable—and even enjoyable. Book your dental cleaning in Montreal today and meet our friendly hygienists.