About Cleanings
Dental cleanings, also known as dental prophylaxis or teeth cleaning, are essential for maintaining good oral health. There are generally two main types of dental cleanings, and their frequency depends on an individual’s oral health needs:
- Regular Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis):
- Frequency: Typically performed every six months.
- Purpose: Aimed at maintaining overall oral health and preventing common dental issues.
- Procedure: Dental hygienists perform a thorough cleaning, including scaling to remove plaque and tartar, polishing to eliminate surface stains, and flossing.
- Suitability: Suitable for individuals with good oral health and those without significant gum disease or other dental concerns.
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling):
- Frequency: Recommended for individuals with gum disease, and the frequency may vary based on the severity of the condition.
- Purpose: Targeted at treating and managing gum disease by addressing the buildup of plaque and tartar below the gumline.
- Procedure: Involves scaling to remove deposits on the teeth to smooth the tooth surfaces, reducing the risk of further bacterial buildup.
- Suitability: Typically recommended for individuals with gum disease, characterized by symptoms like bleeding gums, inflammation, and pocket formation around the teeth.
Comparison:
- Scope: Regular cleaning is preventive and addresses the surface of the teeth, while deep cleaning is therapeutic and focuses on treating gum disease by reaching below the gumline.
- Frequency: Regular cleanings are generally recommended every six months for preventive care, while deep cleanings may be needed more frequently, especially for those with advanced gum disease.
- Procedure Intensity: Deep cleaning is more extensive and may involve local anesthesia, as it reaches below the gumline to address issues in the roots.
- Purpose: Regular cleanings aim to maintain oral health and prevent common issues, while deep cleanings are a targeted treatment for existing gum disease.
It’s important to note that the appropriate type of cleaning depends on an individual’s oral health condition. Dr. Safaei assess each patient’s needs and recommend the most suitable type of cleaning to ensure optimal oral health. Regular dental cleanings are crucial for preventing dental issues, while deep cleanings play a vital role in managing and treating gum disease.