There are many ways you can play an active role in maintaining your oral health. Having your teeth cleaned in our office every six months is an excellent place to start. Our hygienists and dentists identify plaque and problem areas before thoroughly cleaning your teeth, providing you with information to sustain a happy, healthy smile.
What to Expect at Your First Checkup
Our dental cleaning appointments are about an hour-long, and new patient visits typically last a bit longer. We take pride in getting to know each of our patients, tailoring treatments to the health needs and goals of every individual. Here's what to expect the first time you come to our office:
- Dental History: A hygienist will gather dental and medical histories so that we have a clear picture of your current health, including any medical conditions that can impact dental treatment.
- Digital X-rays: We take digital x-rays as diagnostic material for your comprehensive oral exam. If you have had x-rays taken within the last 12 months, please have them sent to our office. If you are unable to have x-rays taken, please inform the hygienist as you give your medical history.
- Oral Screening and Teeth Exams: After we perform an oral cancer/lesion screening for symptoms of cancer and other illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, we examine your teeth for decay.
- Gum Evaluation and Teeth Cleanings: Our hygienist will evaluate your gums, measuring periodontal pockets with a probe, and clean your teeth by identifying and removing areas of tartar, plaque, and calculus.
- Oral Hygiene Habits: We end your visit by reviewing and reinforcing proper oral hygiene.
The Teeth Cleaning Procedure
A teeth cleaning procedure, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a routine dental treatment performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. It includes:
- Initial Examination by the dentist and hygienist to determine signs of inflammation, plaque/tartar buildup, tooth decay, or gum issues.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal (Scaling) by manual scaler and/or ultrasonic scaler.
- Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning (Polishing) with a high-powered electric brush in order to smooth the tooth surface and remove surface stains.
Are There Different Types of Teeth Cleanings?
Yes. There are several types of dental cleanings, each designed to meet different oral health needs:
- Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis): A standard cleaning for patients with healthy gums. It helps prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains.
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Recommended for patients with gum disease. This cleaning goes below the gumline to remove buildup and smooth the roots of the teeth.
- Gross Debridement: Used when there is heavy plaque and tartar buildup. It clears the way for a more thorough cleaning or further dental treatment.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Ongoing care for patients who have been treated for gum disease. These cleanings help keep the gums healthy and prevent further issues.
Keep your smile strong and healthy with Dr. Paola Suglio's preventative dentistry approach. Call Palm and Pearl Dental at (239) 445-4205 with any questions or to make an appointment!