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Plaque and tartar buildup can harbor millions of oral bacteria, causing everything from simple cavities to large-scale infections. Fortunately, dentists use a variety of cleaning procedures to leave their patients’ teeth clean and healthy. Here are three types of dental cleanings your team might recommend and why. 

3 Types of Dental Cleanings

1. Prophylaxis 

dental cleaningsDuring regular dental exams and cleanings, dentists and hygienists perform prophylaxis, or, routine teeth cleanings. During this treatment, special tools are used to scrape away plaque and tartar deposits. Next, the teeth are carefully polished with a gritty toothpaste, and each contact point is flossed. Before you leave, hygienists may ask you to swish with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen dental enamel. 

2. Debridement

Unfortunately, if your teeth aren’t cleaned regularly during routine exams, debridement may be necessary. These cleanings are more in-depth and eliminate larger deposits of tartar. The goal of debridement is to help the gum tissue to heal, as it can become inflamed when exposed to toxins in bacteria. After calculus deposits have been removed, debridement appointments proceed much like traditional prophylaxis visits. 

3. Scaling & Root Planing

When tartar is allowed to rest on teeth for long periods, it may start to affect the underlying enamel, resulting in decay and pitting. Bacteria can also move underneath the gum line, creating gingival pockets that attract more bacteria and plaque. If this occurs, dentists may recommend scaling and planing, which involves debridement above and below the gum line, followed by planing, or smoothing, the teeth and roots. 

 

At Valley Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we care about making your smile clean, white, and healthy, which is why our dentists create fully customized treatment plans. Whether you are struggling with ongoing periodontal disease or simply need a checkup, Dr. Hassan and Dr. Milward will help you to reach your dental health goals. Servicing Fulton County, Hamilton County, Montgomery County, and Saratoga County we provide comprehensive general and family dentistry, including tooth fillings, dental cleanings, tooth restorations, and crowns. To learn more about our practice, visit us online or call (518) 661-6405.

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