The term "cleaning" when used in dentistry often references:

The term "cleaning" in dentistry is primarily understood as the removal of plaque and hard deposits from teeth. This involves both professional teeth cleaning, often performed by dental hygienists, and the daily oral hygiene practices that patients undertake at home, such as brushing and flossing. The goal of cleaning is to prevent dental diseases such as cavities and periodontal disease by eliminating the bacterial biofilm that can accumulate on tooth surfaces.

Professional cleanings also typically involve the use of manual or ultrasonic instruments to remove tartar, which is the hardened form of plaque that cannot be removed by brushing alone. This comprehensive approach to cleaning is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing complications that can arise from neglecting dental hygiene.

While options related to blood removal, polishing, and whitening involve certain aspects of dental care, they do not encompass the full scope of what is implied by the term "cleaning." Polishing is specifically a finishing step that may follow cleaning but does not represent the primary function of cleaning itself. Whitening focuses solely on cosmetic enhancement rather than the health-related aspects of cleaning teeth. Thus, the correct understanding of cleaning in this context is centered on the thorough removal of both plaque and hard deposits, making the selected answer accurate.