What Are the Different Types of Dental Cleanings?

You’re probably wondering why you need to visit the Highlands Dental Arts office when you brush and floss your teeth daily. Is it necessary? Do you need a dental cleaning? The answer is yes. While your home oral care routine is vital in preventing plaque buildup, unfortunately, it’s not enough to stop plaque from forming in areas where the bristles of your toothbrush can’t reach.  

These areas are prone to plaque accumulation, and if they’re not efficiently cleaned, it only takes 48 hours for plaque to harden into a yellowish substance called tartar. The notorious combination of plaque and tartar can wreak havoc in your teeth and gums, and the only way to remove them is through regular professional dental cleanings. Your dentist will determine what type of dental cleaning you need based on the results of your oral exam.  

What Type of Dental Cleaning Do You Need?

Routine Dental Cleaning

The American Dental Association recommends regular visits to the dental office to have your teeth examined and cleaned. What makes professional teeth cleaning special is the techniques used are more thorough. In addition, the tools and instruments are so advanced that they can completely scrape away all traces of plaque and tartar, especially the unreachable areas in your mouth.  

These routine cleanings help remove surface stains, giving you a brighter smile. More importantly, they improve oral health by reducing the risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Most dentists recommend you visit once every six months. The duration of the procedure can take up to an hour.

Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is another type of dental cleaning designed for patients at risk or those who already have existing gum disease. A deep cleaning may be recommended if your dentist discovers swollen, red, and bleeding gums during your oral exam. Scaling and root planing clean the visible parts of your teeth and the areas underneath the gumline.  

The scaling process involves removing plaque and calcified tartar. Root planing involves cleaning your tooth roots and smoothing them, so that your gums can easily reattach to your teeth. To keep you comfortable, dentists usually administer a local anesthetic to the area.  

Periodontal Cleaning

Periodontal cleaning is the same as deep cleaning; the only difference is that it is done more regularly instead of a one-time appointment. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend that you return to the dental office every three to four months for regular maintenance. The procedure helps prevent gum disease from progressing.  

Gross Debridement Cleaning

Some patients are advised to undergo gross debridement cleaning. Gross debridement is usually recommended for those with significant plaque and tartar buildup to the point where the dentist cannot visualize a patient’s oral health because of the amount of tartar on their teeth.  

It’s different from routine and deep cleanings because your dentist will be using a special electronic tool that produces ultrasonic vibrations to break down hardened tartar. After a gross debridement procedure, patients are encouraged to get routine teeth cleanings and deep cleaning for those with gum problems.  

Looking for a Reliable Highland Dental Arts Office?

At Highland Dental Arts, we provide reliable, quality dental services tailored to fit your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Our team has years of experience in the dental industry to help preserve and improve your oral health. Call us today to get started.