an apparatus and method for the supra and subgingival cleaning of teeth comprises and handle with a driving mechanism for reciprocally rotating a tapered cleaning tip about its longitudinal axis . a tuft or other scrubbing mechanism is provided on the outer circumference of the tip . the tip includes circumferentially disposed flutes which can be used to receive and dispense medication to the subgingival area . the tip is introduced into the gap between the gum and the tooth for scrubbing the outer surfaces of the tooth near and under the gum line . this effectively disrupts any bacteria plaque in these areas to clean the tooth .