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Three Types of Dental Cleanings and Why They Are Important

Posted on 5/25/2016 by Raymond Liu

A woman about to receive a scaling and root planning treatment.

If your dentist tells you that you need a cleaning, you know what to expect, right? After all, doesn't a dental cleaning meaning only one thing?

In actuality, there are a few different types of cleanings that are used for different things, so in order to know what to expect at your dental appointment, you'll need to know what type of cleaning you will be having completed.

Regular Dental Cleanings

Your average, run of the mill dental cleaning is known as a prophylaxis, and it is useful in preventing dental problems like cavities and periodontal disease.

It is recommended that you have these cleanings performed twice per year, and they are performed on healthy mouths in order to remove plaque, tartar, and stains on the teeth. Usually this will be done by a dental hygienist.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that is used to treat gum disease before it gets out of control. Plaque is the root cause of periodontal disease, and if plaque isn't removed, it can harden into tartar, which could result in tooth decay and cavities. By removing tartar buildup, you can actually reverse gum disease in its earlier stages.

Dental Debridement

If it has been over a year since your last dental visit, chances are good that your dentist will perform a dental debridement. Technically, this isn't a cleaning, but it is a procedure that will take place before a cleaning occurs.

It removes heavy plaque and tartar buildups so that your dentist is able to better see your teeth and gums. After the procedure, your dentist might follow up with a traditional cleaning, or you may need to come back for a follow-up appointment.

Are you interested in what type of cleaning you'll have at your upcoming appointment? Contact our office today.

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Raymond Liu DDS, 21600 Washington 99, Edmonds, WA, 98026 - Key Phrases: Dentist Edmonds WA, Edmonds Dentist, Dentist Edmonds WA, 425-310-5789, www.drliufamilydental.com, 4/6/2020