Dental cleanings are a necessary part of maintaining healthy teeth. They remove plaque and tartar and help prevent tooth decay. Most insurance plans cover two cleanings per year. Good oral hygiene practices at home can also lower your cavity risk.

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Scaling & Root Planing

During a regular cleaning and preventive exam, our dental cleanings Bowling Green KY hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. This is a general cleaning and is recommended for everyone twice a year. This will help control the bacteria that cause gum disease, gingivitis. However, if the pockets between your teeth and gums become too deep to be cleaned by brushing and flossing alone, we may recommend a periodontal scaling and root planing treatment.

This is a deeper cleaning than a general cleaning and will be done under local anesthetic. It involves removing the plaque, bacteria and tartar from above and below the gum line. It will also involve smoothing the root of the tooth to prevent bacteria from sticking to the rough surface in the future. Recovery from a deep cleaning can take a few days and may include sore or tender gums, but it is important to continue with your daily oral hygiene routine after your appointment.

Periodontal Treatment

If your gum disease is in an advanced stage, your dentist may recommend periodontal treatment. This includes scaling and root planing, which are done under local anesthesia while the area is numb. This deep cleaning involves removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent future buildup (root planning). Antibiotics, either topical or oral, may also be recommended to control infection and to help your gum tissue heal. Your dentist or hygienist may review your home brushing and flossing instructions as well. The number of visits will depend on your overall health, the extent of the periodontal disease, and how well you respond to treatment.