Dental Check up and Cleaning Pasadena
What to Expect at your Cleaning
Dental Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings and exams are one the best things you can do for your teeth. At the Pasadena Dental Practice, we believe that prevention is the best means for maintaining a healthy smile and healthy patient.
The dental cleaning process includes plaque removal, flossing, polishing, and an examination of the gums. Those who keep up with their regular appointments and at-home oral hygiene routine should experience simple and efficient dental cleaning appointments. Dentists and dental hygienists can provide valuable guidance on brushing techniques, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet. Dental exams play a critical role in early detection and prevention of dental issues. To schedule your dental cleaning, contact our Pasadena Dental Practice team at (626) 449-1936 today.
Depending on your specific oral health needs our office offers preventative services, including:
Professional cleanings with one of our hygienists
Periodontal (gum) evaluation, to check for active or past gum disease
Fluoride treatment
Oral hygiene instructions, including brushing and flossing
Recommendation of specific dental products as needed
Routine dental check-ups with Dr. Mary Senstad
Oral cancer screening
Digital x-rays to assess for cavities
Sealants to help prevent cavities
Recommendation of a night guard or sports guard
Difference between a regular cleaning and deep cleaning
A regular cleaning and deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, are both dental procedures aimed at removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. However, they differ in their purpose, scope, and the level of treatment they provide.
Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis):
Regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, is typically performed as part of routine dental care to maintain oral health and prevent the development of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis).
It involves the removal of plaque and tartar deposits from the visible surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line using dental instruments like scalers, ultrasonic scalers with water, and polishers.
Regular cleaning focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and above the gum line. This is sufficient for individuals with healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup.
A regular cleaning is recommended every 6 months for individuals with good oral hygiene and no significant dental issues.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing):
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure designed to treat gum disease (periodontal disease) by removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth to promote healing.
It involves cleaning not only the visible surfaces of the teeth, but also the roots of the teeth and pockets between the gums and teeth where bacteria can accumulate.
Deep cleaning targets areas below the gum line, addressing tartar buildup, inflammation, and infection in the pockets surrounding the teeth. It is typically recommended for individuals with moderate to advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
Depending on the severity of gum disease and the individual's response to treatment, deep cleaning may be followed by additional appointments for ongoing maintenance and monitoring every 3 to 4 months.
While both regular cleaning and deep cleaning aim to improve oral health by removing plaque and tartar, regular cleaning is preventive in nature and focuses on maintaining oral health, while deep cleaning is a therapeutic intervention for treating gum disease and involves more extensive cleaning below the gum line.
