Routine cleaning is part of oral hygiene and involves the removal of dental plaque from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.
Severe dental plaque buildup, pain or sensitivity in tooth, or visible infection are symptoms of a more serious problem, and usually require cleaning by a dental hygienist.
People routinely clean their own teeth by brushing and interdental cleaning, but dental hygienists can remove hardened deposits not removed by routine cleaning. Those with dentures and natural teeth may supplement their cleaning with a denture cleaner.