What Are Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings, or prophylaxis, are routine procedures done by dentists and dental hygienist teams to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. By visiting your dentist twice a year for dental cleanings, you can help keep your smile sparkling and your oral health in pristine condition.
Dr. Dawson is gladly welcoming new patients to his dental office. Contact our office to schedule your appointment.
Types of Dental Cleanings
While most patients know of the basic routine cleaning that’s done at their biannual appointments, there are several other dental cleaning procedures.
Regular Dental Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are the most common type and are recommended for those with good oral health. During the dental cleaning process, our hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. This type of cleaning is recommended twice a year as part of your routine dental care.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning, is recommended for those with moderate to severe gum disease. During scaling and root planing, the hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. They’ll also smooth out the roots of your teeth to prevent future buildup. Depending on the condition of your oral health, the procedure may take more than one appointment to complete.
Periodontal Maintenance
A periodontal maintenance cleaning is done after scaling and root planing to maintain the health of the gums. During periodontal maintenance, our hygienist will gently remove any plaque and tartar buildup that’s accumulated since your last deep cleaning. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are typically done every three to four months.
Gross Debridement
Gross debridement cleaning isn’t your typical dental cleaning. This type of deep cleaning is done to remove plaque and tartar buildup that’s too excessive for a regular cleaning. This procedure is necessary when there’s so much buildup that it makes it difficult for the dentist to perform a thorough oral examination. The gums may be swollen or inflamed, and the buildup must be removed before a prophylaxis or dental exam can be completed.
Who Needs Dental Cleanings?
Everyone should get a dental cleaning at least twice a year, even those who maintain good oral hygiene habits. Even if you brush and floss your teeth well, some areas are hard to clean properly at home.
Those with underlying dental issues or a history of gum disease may require more frequent cleanings. With a thorough dental exam, Dr. Dawson will inform you how often you should have dental cleanings.
Routine Dental Cleaning Benefits
There are several benefits to dental cleanings, including:
- Plaque and tartar removal
- Prevention of gum disease, cavities, and other unwanted issues
- Early detection of oral health problems
- Fresher breath
- Stain removal and teeth polishing
- Yearly oral cancer screenings
- Overall better health
Frequently Asked Questions
No, dental cleanings are typically painless. You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative instructions after the cleaning.
A dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, the length of your procedure depends on the type of cleaning and the extent of buildup on your teeth.
Yes, you can eat after a dental cleaning, but your general dentist will recommend avoiding eating or drinking anything too hot or cold for a few hours after the procedure.
Many dental insurance plans cover regular cleanings, but coverage may vary depending on your plan. However, you should always check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and know about any out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.
Visit Dr. Dawson at Northwind Dental
Dental cleanings, regardless of the type, are essential for maintaining good oral health and avoiding dental problems in the future.
Call our dental office today at (907) 373-2440.