Did you ever wonder about the thriving community of natural bacteria residing in your mouth, feasting on the same meals you enjoy? It may sound unsettling, but fear not! Regular oral hygiene practices like regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings can effectively control and minimize the presence of these microorganisms.
In order to safeguard your oral health and prevent the proliferation of dangerous bacteria that can result in teeth problems like cavities and gum disease, the American Dental Association recommends visiting your local dental clinic every six months for a comprehensive dental examination and cleaning. During these visits, your general dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums, and the skilled hands of a dental hygienist will remove stubborn plaque and tartar deposits. Speaking of which, let’s delve into the realm of dental cleanings and explore the four primary types. So, let’s start to answer the query: What is a teeth cleaning called?
What Is A Teeth Cleaning Called?
In this section we will answer the query: What is a teeth cleaning called? Basically there are four different types of teeth cleaning. Let’s start to explain each of them.Â
- Prophylaxis Dental Cleaning: The term “prophylaxis” essentially means preventing disease. Prophylaxis dental cleanings aim to maintain your teeth’ health by removing plaque and tartar from all surfaces using specialized instruments. Most individuals who maintain good daily oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups typically require prophylaxis cleanings
- Scaling and Root Planing Cleaning: Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, target not only the visible tooth surfaces but also the gum pockets. These cleanings are prescribed to combat gingivitis and periodontitis, with gingivitis treatments often completed in a single session. More severe periodontitis cases may necessitate multiple appointments and localized anesthesia. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from both the tooth surface and gum pockets, while root planing smoothens tooth roots, promoting gum reattachment and pocket reduction
- Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning: Aimed at managing gum disease, periodontal maintenance cleanings follow a similar process to scaling and root planing. They involve removing excess plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and gum pockets, coupled with root smoothing if required. What sets these cleanings apart is their frequency, as they are typically performed more regularly to manage the progressive nature of gum disease effectively
- Gross Debridement Cleaning: The most intensive dental cleanings, gross debridement cleanings are reserved for cases where substantial plaque and tartar buildup has occurred, often due to neglect or infrequent dental visits. An electrical tool is employed to break down hardened tartar before a prophylaxis cleaning completes the process, leaving teeth refreshed and clean
Final Words: What Is A Teeth Cleaning Called?
In summary, your dentist selects the appropriate dental cleaning based on your unique oral health needs. These various cleaning methods share a common goal: maintaining a healthy smile. Now, the only question remaining is, when was your last teeth cleaning? Remember, regular visits to your dentist can help keep your oral microbiome in check and your smile radiant. So, what is a teeth cleaning called? It’s your ticket to a healthier, happier mouth.
