Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, and regular dental cleanings play a crucial role in this. However, there are different types of dental cleanings. At Valley Dental in Fargo, we offer various types of dental cleanings to meet the unique needs of our patients. Understanding the differences between these cleanings can help you take better care of your teeth and gums. Here’s an overview of the most common types of dental cleanings and their purposes.
1. Routine Prophylaxis Cleaning
Purpose:
Routine prophylaxis, commonly known as a regular cleaning, is designed to maintain overall oral health.
Who Needs It:
This type of cleaning is typically recommended for patients with healthy gums and no significant periodontal disease. Most people should have a prophylaxis cleaning every six months.
What to Expect:
During a prophylaxis cleaning, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. They will also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and provide a smooth, clean finish. This helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
2. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Purpose:
Scaling and root planing, often referred to as a deep cleaning, is a more intensive procedure aimed at treating periodontal disease.
Who Needs It:
Patients with signs of gum disease, such as deep pockets around the teeth, bleeding gums, or significant tartar buildup below the gumline, may need this type of cleaning.
What to Expect:
Deep cleaning involves two steps: scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gumline, while root planing smooths out the roots of the teeth to help gums reattach and heal. This procedure may require multiple visits and local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
3. Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning
Purpose:
Periodontal maintenance cleanings are ongoing treatments to manage periodontal disease after it has been treated.
Who Needs It:
Patients who have undergone scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatments typically require regular maintenance cleanings to prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
What to Expect:
These cleanings are similar to routine prophylaxis but are performed more frequently, usually every three to four months. They focus on maintaining the health of the gums and preventing further progression of periodontal disease.
4. Gross Debridement
Purpose:
Gross debridement is a preliminary cleaning used to remove heavy plaque and tartar buildup.
Who Needs It:
This type of cleaning is necessary for patients who have not had a dental cleaning in a long time or have extensive buildup that makes a thorough examination difficult.
What to Expect:
During a gross debridement, our dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove large deposits of plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. This process allows for a more detailed examination and further treatment planning if needed.
Schedule a Consultation Today and Learn More About The Different Types of Dental Cleanings
Understanding the different types of dental cleanings can help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more specialized care, the team at Valley Dental in Fargo is here to provide the highest quality treatment tailored to your needs. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit or you have concerns about your gum health, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier smile.