Dental Cleanings

Dental cleanings are both a service AND a diagnosis.  Cleaning teeth means that the gums are healthy.  Healthy gums do not bleed, as that would indicate at minimum gingivitis.  More likely is that some stage of periodontal disease is present.

A dental cleaning involves removing stains, plaque and calculus build up (commonly called tartar) from above the gumline and in shallow, healthy pockets.  Often this visit is completed with a polish of the teeth with a gritty toothpaste that leaves the teeth feeling smooth.  Fluoride applications are offered to help prevent tooth decay.