Different Types of Dental Cleanings
Two times a year, you should visit your dentist for a teeth cleaning in order to help maintain your teeth and to make sure that no major oral health concerns have arisen in your mouth.
But did you know that your dentist may employ a variety of cleaning techniques depending on your specific needs?
When you understand the various types of dental cleaning treatments, you will be able to better understand the terminology used by your dentist as well as what it takes to maintain your oral health and keep your smile bright.
Prophylaxis Cleaning
A prophylaxis cleaning is a routine cleaning that is designed to remove a specific amount of plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, between your teeth, and on your gums. It is most commonly performed on patients who have a generally healthy mouth and practice good oral hygiene. Additionally, it will remove surface stains from your teeth.
This cleaning will most likely be performed during one of your regularly scheduled dental appointments. It is typically performed by a dental hygienist, but your dentist has the skills and knowledge to perform a prophylaxis cleaning as well.
Gross Debridement
If you haven't seen a dentist in a long time, you're likely to have a lot of plaque buildup on your teeth, gums, and tongue. A thorough debridement, also known as a deep cleaning, removes plaque and tartar from all areas of your mouth.
Your dentist will examine your mouth to see if you need a gross debridement cleaning. Before administering a standard prophylaxis, a thorough debridement is performed if necessary.
Scaling and Root Planing
Patients suffering from gum disorders such as gingivitis or periodontitis are frequently recommended this more intrusive, non-surgical teeth cleaning method.
Your gums, gum line, and any other tissues that support your teeth will all be thoroughly cleaned by your dentist. Since your tooth root needs to have its surface smoothed out and any plaque and tartar that has built up on it removed, the cleaning may require several dental visits.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal care is typically necessary for patients who have common oral health issues like gingivitis or periodontitis to keep these conditions under control and stop them from worsening.
These individuals often require many visits over a specific length of time or until all oral health concerns have been addressed in order for the dentist to thoroughly clean their whole mouth.