4 Different Types of Dental Cleaning
Dr. Marco Carroccia is a dentist practicing in Windsor, Ontario. Dr. Carroccia specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatments as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic... more
Dental cleaning, a pivotal aspect of oral care, goes beyond the superficial removal of plaque and tartar.
It's a multifaceted process tailored to individual needs, with distinct types catering to various oral health conditions.
This article explores four essential types of dental cleaning procedures, shedding light on their unique benefits and methodologies.
1. Prophylaxis Cleaning:
The cornerstone of dental maintenance, prophylaxis cleaning, is synonymous with regular or preventive cleaning.
Ideally performed every six months, this dental cleaning type suits individuals with sound dental health, devoid of gum disease indications.
Its primary goal is to forestall dental issues and uphold impeccable oral hygiene.
Benefits of Prophylaxis Cleaning:
Prophylaxis cleaning excels at eradicating plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth surfaces and along the gum line.
By targeting the sticky bacterial film called plaque and its hardened counterpart, tartar, this procedure ensures a clean slate. Additionally, it effectively eliminates stains caused by consumables like coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco.
The Process:
Executed by a dentist or hygienist, prophylaxis cleaning involves a meticulous scraping of plaque and tartar using a dental scaler or water stream.
Subsequently, teeth are polished with a rotating brush and a specialized paste. The process concludes with flossing and the application of fluoride to fortify enamel, thwarting cavity formation.
2. Scaling and Root Planing:
Stepping into more intensive terrain, scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning or periodontal cleaning, is recommended for individuals grappling with gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis.
These inflammatory conditions demand a more profound cleaning approach.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing:
This procedure not only eliminates plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line but also smoothens tooth roots.
This aids in the reattachment of gums to teeth, reducing or eliminating pockets where harmful substances can accumulate and jeopardize supporting bone and tissue.
The Process:
Utilizing a dental scaler or water stream, the dentist or hygienist meticulously cleans the teeth and gums.
A specialized instrument called a curette is then employed to scrape and smooth the roots, a process that may necessitate local anesthesia for patient comfort. Multiple sessions may be required, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
3. Periodontal Maintenance:
This is a follow-up type of dental cleaning. It serves as a follow-up to scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatments, periodontal maintenance is a vigilant approach to curb potential recurrence or worsening of gum disease.
It mirrors the deep cleaning process but is conducted more frequently and less extensively.
Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance:
Periodontal maintenance removes bacteria and plaque from the gums and teeth to prevent gum disease and tooth loss.
It also improves your oral health and overall well-being by healing the gums, eliminating bad breath, and reducing the risk of other diseases.
The Process:
Similar to scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance involves removing any new plaque and tartar that may have formed since the last visit.
Scheduled every three to four months, or as advised by the dentist, it safeguards the results of prior periodontal treatments and prevents further damage to teeth and gums.
4. Gross Debridement:
Initiated when there's a substantial accumulation of plaque and tartar due to prolonged dental neglect, gross debridement is a preliminary cleaning, often referred to as a full mouth debridement.
It lays the groundwork for a comprehensive assessment of oral health.
Benefits of Gross Debridement:
Gross debridement efficiently clears a substantial amount of plaque and tartar, allowing dentists to gauge the extent of necessary dental treatments.
The Process:
Performed in one session, gross debridement involves the use of a dental scaler or water stream to clean teeth and gums.
Local anesthesia may be administered for comfort. However, additional dental cleaning or procedures may be recommended to fully restore oral health.
Conclusion:
Dental cleaning is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
It's a tailored approach that aligns with your oral health requirements.
Book an appointment with our Windsor Dentist to find out the most suitable cleaning method for you.
By investing in the right type of dental cleaning, you not only prevent dental problems but also enhance your smile, fostering enduring oral health.
