Cleanings

Routine dental cleaning—usually twice a year—includes scaling (removal of plaque, calculus, and stain from teeth), brushing and polishing with a fluoride toothpaste. The American Dental Association recommends having your teeth cleaned every six months as a way to prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar that regular brushing may miss.


Frequent cleanings also have other benefits:

 

  • They allow your dentist to catch any potential issues early, from tooth decay to oral cancer, ensuring better overall oral health.
  • Regular cleanings can reduce the risk of infections that may affect other organs.
  • Cleanings remove bacteria that can build up and cause bad breath.

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The UCSF Difference

Why have your teeth cleaned at UCSF?

UCSF is a world leader in health care and research, committed to excellent, patient-centered care. The UCSF Dental Center has served the community and trained top dentists since 1881.

Our faculty and residents deliver high-quality oral health care, supported by some of the nation’s most accomplished dental students. Third- and fourth-year student dentists work under close faculty supervision and offer a more affordable option than private practices. Visits may take longer, but they provide exceptional value while supporting student training.

As a UCSF Dentistry patient, you’ll experience:
 

  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Advanced technology
  • A collaborative faculty-resident care team
  • An emphasis on education and comfort
  • A longstanding commitment to excellence
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Billing

Payment and Insurance Options

Different clinics work with different insurance plans, and participation may change over time. Please be sure to ask our staff about insurance options when scheduling your appointment.
 

  • The General Dentistry clinic accepts many insurance plans, but not Denti-Cal, nor any HMO or DMO plans. The student Dentistry Clinic accepts Denti-Cal, Delta Dental Premier and Delta PPO.
  • Please bring your benefit card or insurance plan information to your appointment
  • Patients may pay with cash, check or credit card for Dental Center services.
Dental Center billing

What to expect

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Personalized consultation

Our providers take time to understand both your dental needs and your lifestyle, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to you from the very first visit.

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Bring records and insurance

Please share any previous dental records and provide your insurance information so our team can coordinate your care and coverage efficiently.

Attention to detail

Attention to detail

Whether you’re seen by a faculty member, student, or hygienist, your UCSF provider will take the time to give your teeth a thorough, careful cleaning.

Locations

Schedule an appointment