Regular Cleanings

Regular cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are routine dental procedures designed to maintain good oral health. These cleanings are typically recommended every six months for individuals with healthy gums and minimal plaque and tartar buildup. During a regular cleaning, a dentist or dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums, remove any accumulated plaque and tartar using special dental instruments, and then polish your teeth to make them smooth and free from stains. This process helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and keeps your teeth looking clean and white. Regular cleanings are an essential part of preventive dental care and can also include optional fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel.

Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing)

Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, are therapeutic dental procedures recommended when a patient has more advanced gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. These cleanings go beyond the surface and target the area below the gumline. During a deep cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will first assess the extent of gum disease. Then, they will perform scaling, which involves removing hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. Root planing follows, which is the smoothing of the tooth roots to prevent further bacterial accumulation. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection. Deep cleanings aim to stop the progression of gum disease, reduce gum inflammation and bleeding, prevent tooth and bone loss, and promote the healing of gum tissues.

Regular Cleaning Benefits:

1. Prevents Cavities: Regular cleanings help remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay if left unchecked.
2. Reduces Risk of Gum Disease: By removing plaque and tartar buildup, regular cleanings lower the risk of developing gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
3. Freshens Breath: Removing bacterial buildup contributes to fresher breath and improved overall oral hygiene.
4. Early Problem Detection: Regular dental check-ups during cleanings allow for the early detection of dental issues, potentially preventing more severe problems in the future.
5. Maintains a Bright Smile: Polishing during regular cleanings can help remove surface stains, keeping your teeth looking clean and white.

Deep Cleaning Benefits:

1. Halts Gum Disease Progression: Deep cleanings are crucial for individuals with gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) as they effectively stop the progression of the disease.
2. Reduces Gum Inflammation: Scaling and root planing remove the source of inflammation, leading to healthier and less swollen gums.
3. Prevents Tooth and Bone Loss: Treating gum disease through deep cleanings helps prevent tooth mobility and bone loss, preserving your natural teeth.
4. Promotes Healing: Deep cleanings facilitate the healing of gum tissues by creating a clean and bacteria-free environment.
5. Improved Overall Health: Gum disease is linked to systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Treating gum disease through deep cleanings can contribute to better overall health.

Regular Cleaning Process:

1. Examination: The dental hygienist or dentist begins by examining your teeth and gums. This assessment helps identify any areas of concern or dental issues that may require further attention.
2. Scaling: Using specialized dental instruments, the dental professional removes plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. This process is known as scaling.
3. Polishing: After scaling, your teeth are polished to remove stains and surface irregularities. Polishing gives your teeth a smooth and clean appearance.
4. Fluoride Treatment (Optional): Some regular cleanings include the application of fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and can help prevent tooth decay. It is often applied as a gel, foam, or varnish.
5. Oral Care Recommendations: The dental professional may provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as recommendations for any additional oral care products or practices that may benefit you.

Deep Cleaning Process (Scaling and Root Planing):

1. Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist begins by assessing the extent of your gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) through a thorough examination, including measurements of pocket depths around your teeth.
2. Scaling: In the scaling phase, the dental professional removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from both the tooth surfaces and below the gumline using specialized instruments. This process targets the root cause of gum disease.
3. Root Planing: Root planing involves smoothing the surfaces of the tooth roots. This process makes it more difficult for bacteria to reattach and accumulate, facilitating the healing of gum tissues and reducing inflammation.
4. Antibiotic Treatment (Sometimes): In cases of severe gum disease or infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control and eliminate harmful bacteria.
5. Follow-Up Appointments: Deep cleaning typically requires multiple appointments, with each focusing on specific areas of your mouth. The number of appointments and frequency may vary based on the severity of your gum disease.
6. Maintenance Plan: After completing the deep cleaning process, your dentist will provide a customized maintenance plan. This plan may include more frequent dental check-ups (every 3-4 months) and instructions for maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home.

Suitable Candidates for Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis):

1. Individuals with Good Oral Health: Regular cleanings are recommended for individuals with healthy gums and minimal plaque and tartar buildup.
2. Low Risk of Gum Disease: Those who have a low risk of developing gum disease or have never been diagnosed with it are ideal candidates for regular cleanings.
3. Maintenance of Oral Hygiene: Regular cleanings are essential for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing dental issues such as cavities and early-stage gum disease (gingivitis).
4. Preventive Care: People who want to proactively prevent dental problems and maintain a bright and healthy smile should undergo regular cleanings, typically every six months.

Suitable Candidates for Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing):

1. Individuals with Gum Disease: Deep cleanings are specifically recommended for individuals with gum disease, including gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) or periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
2. Moderate to Severe Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Those with significant plaque and tartar accumulation, particularly below the gumline, may require deep cleaning to address the underlying causes of gum disease.
3. Bleeding or Swollen Gums: Gum bleeding, inflammation, and other signs of gum disease are indicators that deep cleaning may be necessary to treat the condition.
4. Gum Pockets: When measurements of pocket depths around the teeth reveal pockets deeper than 4 millimeters, it may indicate the need for scaling and root planing.
5. Preventing Tooth and Bone Loss: Deep cleaning can help prevent the progression of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth mobility and bone loss.
6. Supporting Gum Tissue Healing: Individuals who require treatment to promote the healing of gum tissues and reduce inflammation are suitable candidates for deep cleaning.

During the Procedure:

Regular Cleaning:

1. Examination: The dental hygienist or dentist will examine your teeth and gums to assess your oral health.
2. Scaling: Using specialized instruments, they will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth's surfaces, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Polishing: After scaling, your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and make them smooth.
4. Fluoride Treatment (Optional): In some cases, fluoride may be applied to strengthen tooth enamel.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing):

1. Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist will evaluate the extent of your gum disease through measurements of pocket depths around your teeth.
2. Scaling: Plaque, tartar, and bacteria will be removed both above and below the gumline using specialized instruments.
3. Root Planing: The surfaces of the tooth roots will be smoothed to prevent bacteria from reattaching and to facilitate gum tissue healing.
4. Antibiotic Treatment (Sometimes): In cases of severe gum disease or infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control and eliminate harmful bacteria.

After the Procedure:

Regular Cleaning:

1. Sensitivity: You may experience mild tooth sensitivity or gum tenderness, which typically subsides within a day or two.
2. Oral Hygiene Recommendations: The dental professional may provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as recommendations for any additional oral care products.
3. Continued Prevention: Regular cleanings are part of preventive care, so it's essential to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine at home.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing):

1. Post-Treatment Sensations: It's common to experience some discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity after deep cleaning. Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can help manage these symptoms.
2. Follow-Up Appointments: Deep cleaning typically requires multiple appointments, focusing on specific areas of your mouth. The number and frequency of appointments depend on the severity of your gum disease.
3. Maintenance Plan: Your dentist will provide a customized maintenance plan, which may include more frequent dental check-ups (usually every 3-4 months) and specific oral hygiene instructions.
4. Oral Rinse: You may be prescribed an antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwash to help control infection and promote healing.

General Considerations:

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water after the procedure to stay hydrated, especially if you received local anesthesia.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption, as these can slow down the healing process.
• Follow Post-Procedure Instructions: Be sure to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by your dental professional for the best outcomes.

Q1: What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

• A regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure performed every six months to remove plaque and tartar buildup. A deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure for individuals with gum disease, involving the removal of bacteria and calculus from below the gumline.

Q2: How often should I get a regular cleaning?

• Most people should have a regular cleaning every six months to maintain good oral health. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have specific dental concerns.

Q3: Is a regular cleaning painful?

• No, a regular cleaning is typically not painful. You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during and after the procedure, but it should be minimal.

Q4: Are deep cleanings painful?

• Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) can cause some discomfort and sensitivity, especially if you have gum disease. However, your dentist will use local anesthesia to minimize pain during the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort afterward.

Q5: How long does a dental cleaning procedure take?

• A regular cleaning usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour. Deep cleanings may require multiple appointments, with each session lasting about an hour or so, depending on the extent of the gum disease.

Q6: Can I eat after a dental cleaning?

• Yes, you can eat after a dental cleaning. However, it's advisable to wait until any numbness from anesthesia has worn off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.

Q7: Are there any side effects or risks associated with dental cleanings?

• Dental cleanings are generally safe. Side effects may include mild discomfort, sensitivity, or gum bleeding after deep cleaning. There are minimal risks when performed by trained professionals. However, in rare cases, there may be complications such as infection or damage to dental work.

Q8: How can I maintain good oral hygiene between dental cleanings?

• To maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash if recommended. Follow your dentist's advice on oral care products and techniques.

Q9: Can I drink and smoke after a dental cleaning?

• It's best to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption immediately after a dental cleaning, as they can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Q10: How much does a dental cleaning cost?

• The cost of dental cleanings can vary based on location, the type of cleaning (regular or deep), and individual dental insurance coverage. Regular cleanings are generally less expensive than deep cleanings.