Regular professional cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health. No matter how well you brush, you just can’t reach all the places where plaque and tartar hide. Routine cleanings involve the removal of this material and checking for signs of gum disease. In its earliest stages, gum disease is called gingivitis and can usually be treated with a series of follow-up cleanings.
However, if the hygienist finds signs of advanced periodontal disease, a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, may be necessary.
During a deep cleaning, our hygienist performs scaling, which removes plaque and tartar that attach to the surface of your teeth, especially the area below the gum line. Root planing smoothes out irregular areas of the root surface, making it more challenging for bacteria to attach and infect the treated area.
After your deep cleaning, the hygienist will review proper oral hygiene practices and may recommend frequent periodic cleanings to prevent infection from returning.
Good at-home oral hygiene, combined with regular checkups and cleanings at our Reno, NV dental office, significantly reduce the chance that you will develop gum disease. If you’re due for a cleaning, please call our office for an appointment. It’s easier to take steps to prevent oral disease than to have to deal with more serious problems in the future.