At our patients’ biannual visit to our office, our patients can expect some questions about their overall health, an examination of the oral cavity, and a cleaning. Cleanings are used to support the brushing patients do at home. Plaque can build-up into tartar, which can only be removed by an oral professional. My Dentist Friend offers cleanings as a way to support a patient’s oral health and to prevent the development of complications.
book onlineWhat Can I Expect From a Routine Cleaning?
When a patient comes into the office for a checkup, the patient will have a routine cleaning, professionally known as a prophylaxis. Using a small mirror and tongue depressor, our Dentists will thoroughly clean the mouth and ensure it remains healthy until the next visit. This cleaning is suitable for patients who have good oral health. Patients who suffer from oral complications will have to have other cleanings when they come into our office. First, a scaler is used to remove plaque and tartar that has built up on the teeth’s enamel. Usually, our Hygienist will find it on places that are difficult to brush, such as in between the teeth, or where plaque is liable to build up, like the gumlines. This is an opportunity for our Dentists to teach our patients how to take better care of their oral health, as they will be able to see where oral care has been neglected. Then, a high-powered electric toothbrush is used to remove built-up plaque and tartar from the patients’ teeth. This toothbrush will be more powerful than the one patients have at home and should only be used every 6 months. Otherwise the patients risk damaging their teeth. The brushing is then followed by a professional flossing and a fluoride rinse. The final step is a fluoride treatment, which is placed on the teeth in order to protect them until the next biannual professional cleaning.
What Other Types of Cleanings Are There?
When a patient has not visited our office in some time, then the patient will need a more intense form of cleaning called gross debridement. The reason a patient would need a different type of treatment, compared to a routine cleaning, is because the plaque on the patient’s teeth will have hardened, and therefore will require a more intense cleaning. Scaling and root planing is used on those who suffer from periodontitis, a form of gum disease which is incurable. Scaling and root planing are used to discourage the escalation of gum disease in a patient’s mouth and to help ensure the upkeep of good oral health. The gums are smoothed to prevent bacterial growth, and all plaque and tartar are removed thoroughly. This usually takes longer than a normal cleaning, depending on the severity of the condition. You should not worry if it has been some time since your last dental exam with our team. My Dentist Friend is accommodating and can help maintain your oral health with professional cleanings and advice for home brushing. Book an appointment with our office now at 856-484-4114.