Teeth Cleanings

After your comprehensive examination, we will better understand the condition of your gums. We will make sure to inform and educate you on what type of cleaning would be best for your oral health through use of digital x-rays, intraoral pictures and other visual aids.

Preventative Hygiene Therapy

If proper oral hygiene is maintained, you will most of the time just need a preventative cleaning that involves the use of hand instruments and an ultrasonic to remove bacteria. This process is completed typically once every 6 months.

Gum Infection Therapy (Scaling and Root Planing)

Your gums are the foundation for your teeth and we stress the importance of properly maintaining them. Even after brushing, bacteria quickly forms on teeth and if not removed, will turn into a hard substance called calculus. This substance dramatically increases your risk of cavities, bad breath, bleeding gums and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is extremely important to treat because it causes extensive bone and tooth loss as well as can have effects on your overall health such as with your heart, lungs and blood sugar.

If periodontal disease is diagnosed, it will require gum infection therapy and involves a more extensive use of hand instruments, the ultrasonic and possibly other medication to thoroughly remove the bacteria hidden deep below the gums. This process may take a couple of appointments to complete.

Periodontal Maintenance Therapy

The problem with periodontal disease is once you have it, you must continue to combat it through continuous maintenance therapy in order to keep from further advancement. We will continue to check your gum health and provide gum infection therapy with follow-up appointments anywhere from 3 – 6 months depending on your progress.

What to Expect

Appointments from 40 min – 1.5 hours

In order to maintain healthy gums, the following is what to expect at your appointment:

• Nitrous/Sedation can be administered upon request
• For your comfort, numbing jelly and anesthetic may be applied to the areas where work will be done
• The dental professional will use hand instruments and an ultrasonic to remove bacteria to thoroughly clean your teeth
• Post-op instructions will be provided regarding your new freshly cleaned teeth and gums
• Mouthwash and/or antibiotics may be prescribed for infections