Is There More Than One Type of Dental Cleaning?

Most dentists recommend getting cleanings on a regular basis. This simple service does more than just remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. Dental cleanings are an important procedure that can sustain and protect your oral health on a long-term basis. They also give us a chance to check for other health issues, such as gum disease.

So, what are the different types of dental cleanings available, and which one should you get? Our skilled and professional practitioners at MINT dentistry in Dallas and Houston, TX are proud to share the top reasons for scheduling cleanings and which kind works best for your dental health. Read below to learn more.

Prophylaxis cleaning

A prophylaxis cleaning is more commonly known as a routine dental cleaning. This kind of cleaning is normally performed on healthy patients who only require routine maintenance. It involves removing plaque while making sure there are no other concerns with your teeth and gums. In many cases, a dental hygienist or another professional can perform your prophylaxis cleaning. Dentists recommend this specific treatment every six months or as requested by patients.

Scaling and root planing

When plaque builds up over time without being cleaned, it can harden and turn into tartar. If tartar is not removed, it causes the gums to bleed and become swollen. Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning for patients who show signs of excess tartar and gum disease. During this cleaning in Dallas or Houston, TX, MINT dentistry works hard to eliminate tartar both above and below the gumline. Some signs you may need this type of dental cleaning include:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

• Red or swollen gums

• Bad breath that will not go away, even with brushing

• Gums that are beginning to pull away from the teeth

Gross debridement

While prophylaxis addresses mild to moderate amounts of plaque, sometimes patients require more comprehensive treatment for their dental health. A gross debridement is performed on individuals who may not have visited the dentist in a long time. A debridement is needed when the teeth are covered in so much plaque and dense deposits that we cannot check for signs of decay or gum disease. Once the debridement is completed, patients can return to regular cleanings again.

Periodontal maintenance

Gum disease is an infection that damages the soft tissue and causes side effects like redness and swelling. When periodontitis is not addressed, it will eventually lead to loose teeth and even tooth loss. Periodontal maintenance cleanings at MINT dentistry can specifically treat the gum pockets to reduce bacteria and make your mouth healthy again. Periodontal cleanings are recommended by your dentist based on your initial checkup and current symptoms.

Improve your dental health

The secret to maintaining a healthy smile begins with regular dental cleanings. These services are important for sustaining good oral health all year long. At MINT dentistry in Dallas and Houston, TX, we offer several types of dental cleanings for patients of all ages. Learn about prophylaxis cleanings, scaling and root planing, gross debridement, and periodontal maintenance by scheduling a visit to our clinic. We can help you enjoy the benefits of having a healthy and beautiful smile.