Prophylaxis (Regular Cleaning/Preventative Cleaning)
This cleaning is performed on patients with both healthy mouths and those with mild gum infection known as gingivitis. Regular preventative dental cleanings, known as a dental prophylaxis or “prophy,” are a vital aspect of maintaining a healthy smile. During a prophy the dentist or hygienist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar (hard deposits, also referred to as calculus) from the exposed crown of the tooth and the area just under the gumline. In addition to preventing gum and tooth infections, good oral health is important for overall health of the body. Numerous studies have shown links between poor oral hygiene and systemic health issues such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, etc…
Most individuals will require a prophylaxis dental cleaning every 6 months. In certain circumstances your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend 3-4 month intervals for dental cleanings. If you have any questions about how frequently you should receive a dental cleaning we recommend you have a discussion with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
After a thorough examination your dentist may recommend a type of cleaning called scaling and root planing, often commonly referred to as a deep cleaning. Scaling and root planning is a treatment for Periodontal Disease, a condition which results in damage to the soft tissues and bone surrounding the teeth as a result of inflammation and infection. Periodontal disease can be either localized to one area or generalized throughout the mouth, and if left untreated can lead to tooth loss. According to the CDC it is estimated that 47.2% of adults over age 30 have some form of periodontal disease. In addition the incidence rate of periodontal disease increases with age with an estimated 70.1% of adults over 65 having the disease (www.cdc.gov).
As the bone is damaged around the teeth, pockets will form in the gums surrounding the root surface. This allows for hard deposits called dental tartar, also know as calculus, to form on the root surface deeper below the gumline. The calculus is a home for bacteria and needs to be removed by a qualified dentist or dental hygienist as part of the treatment for gum disease through scaling and root planing. During this procedure your dentist or hygienist will use specially designed instruments to access the deeper pockets around the teeth and remove the calculus build up.
Once you have had scaling and root planing completed, your dentist will typically recommend a 3-4 month recall for cleanings known as periodontal maintenance. More severe cases of periodontal disease may require referral to a gum specialist known as a periodontist.