Regular dental cleanings help prevent dental problems and maintain healthy teeth and gums. The type of cleaning you need depends on your individual oral health, including the condition of your gums and the amount of plaque and tartar buildup. Dr. Barry will evaluate your needs, explain his findings, and discuss the care that's appropriate for you.

Our Hygiene Services:

Preventive Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

A preventive cleaning is intended for patients whose gum health is generally stable and who do not require treatment for active periodontal disease. During your cleaning, Dr. Barry removes plaque, hardened tartar (calculus), and surface stains from your teeth. He'll also discuss ways to maintain your oral health at home.

Routine cleanings are generally recommended every six to twelve months, depending on your individual needs.

Full Mouth Debridement

When a significant amount of plaque and tartar has accumulated, a full mouth debridement may be needed to remove heavy buildup that makes it difficult to thoroughly evaluate your teeth and gums. Once the buildup has been removed, Dr. Barry can more fully assess your periodontal health and determine whether routine preventive care or additional treatment is needed.

Periodontal Maintenance

After treatment for periodontal disease, regular maintenance visits are important for keeping the condition under control. Periodontal maintenance involves removing plaque and tartar, monitoring gum health, and checking for signs of recurring disease.

Unlike routine preventive cleanings, these visits are generally scheduled more frequently. Depending on your periodontal health, maintenance appointments may be recommended every two to four months.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

When periodontal disease has developed, a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing may be recommended. This treatment removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline and along the roots of the teeth to help control the infection and inflammation associated with gum disease.

Treatment may require multiple appointments, and local anesthesia may be used to keep you comfortable. Following treatment, Dr. Barry will assess your response and recommend the appropriate ongoing care.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection affecting the tissues that support your teeth. It begins when plaque bacteria contribute to gum inflammation. Without appropriate care, it can progress and damage the gums and supporting bone.

The earliest stage, gingivitis, causes gum inflammation and is generally reversible with appropriate treatment and good oral hygiene. More advanced periodontal disease, known as periodontitis, can cause lasting damage to the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. While it cannot always be reversed, appropriate treatment and ongoing maintenance can help control the disease and reduce further damage.

Gum disease does not always cause pain, so it can go unnoticed. Signs may include red or swollen gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth.

How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?

During your dental examination, Dr. Barry evaluates the health of your teeth and gums. This may include measuring the spaces between your teeth and gums, checking for inflammation or bleeding, assessing gum recession and tooth mobility, and reviewing dental X-rays when needed to evaluate the supporting bone.

These findings help determine whether routine preventive cleanings are appropriate or whether periodontal treatment and more frequent maintenance are needed.

Protecting Your Oral Health at Home

Professional dental care is only part of maintaining a healthy mouth. Daily brushing, cleaning between your teeth, and other habits tailored to your needs all play an important role in preventing dental problems and maintaining the results of your treatment.

We've put together a more detailed guide to help you understand how to protect your teeth and gums between appointments.

[Open Our Oral Health Care Guide]

If you have questions about your gum health or the type of cleaning you may need, please contact our office. We're happy to discuss your concerns and help you understand your options.