Overview

• Professional tooth cleaning is an intensive procedure by trained practice staff that removes plaque and calculus, cleans between teeth, smooths surfaces, and finishes with a fluoride application.
• A 2018 Cochrane review found insufficient evidence that the procedure adds benefit for people with good oral hygiene compared with basic tartar removal.
• German dental bodies cite long‑term Swedish studies and argue that the cleaning supports oral health within structured prophylaxis programs.
• Most practices charge about €80–120 for the service, with higher costs possible for heavier deposits, and it is generally billed as a private service.
• Some insurers offer subsidies, side effects are reported as rare, and standard home care with twice‑daily fluoridated brushing plus interdental cleaning remains the baseline recommendation.