Types of Dental Cleanings

Learning about the different types of dental cleanings will help you communicate more effectively with your dentist and maintain good oral health. Here, our Tecumseh offices explain the different types of dental cleanings and how they can benefit you.

Different Types of Dental Cleanings

You should visit your dentist for a teeth cleaning at least twice a year to help maintain your teeth and make sure that no major oral health concerns arise.

But did you know that your dentist may employ a variety of cleaning techniques depending on your specific needs?

When you grasp the many sorts of dental cleaning treatments, you will be better able to comprehend the terminology your dentist is using 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 designed to remove a specified 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 an overall healthy mouth and who practice good oral hygiene. Additionally, it will remove surface stains from your teeth.

These dental cleanings will most likely be performed at one of your regularly scheduled dental appointments. It is also usually performed by a dental hygienist, but your dentist has the skills and knowledge to perform a prophylaxis cleaning too if they need to.

Gross Debridement

If it's been a while since your last dentist appointment, you're likely to have a significant amount of plaque buildup on your teeth, gums, and tongue. A thorough debridement, also known as a deep cleaning, is a procedure that eliminates plaque and tartar from all areas of your mouth.

Your dentist will inspect your mouth to determine whether or not you require a gross debridement cleaning procedure. If necessary, a thorough debridement is carried out before the administration of a normal prophylaxis.

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.

You will receive a thorough cleaning of your gums, gum line, and any other tissues that support your teeth. This method may require multiple appointments to complete since they need to smooth out the surface of your tooth root as well as remove any plaque and tartar that has formed.

Periodontal Maintenance

Patients who suffer from common oral health concerns such as gingivitis or periodontitis will usually require periodontal care to keep these illnesses under control and prevent them from progressing.

These individuals often require many visits over a specific length of time or until all oral health concerns have been addressed for the dentist to thoroughly clean their whole mouth.

Are you due for a professional dental cleaning? Contact our Tecumseh offices to book an appointment.