Dental Cleaning

If you are new, returning after time away, or noticing bleeding or tenderness, the visit should start with your current oral health—not an assumption that every patient needs the same cleaning. Meet Dr. Kevin Molldrem for more about the dentist and practice.

What a Professional Cleaning Removes

Plaque is a soft bacterial film that can usually be disrupted with effective brushing and flossing. When deposits mineralize into calculus, they cannot be brushed away. Dental professionals use appropriate instruments to remove those deposits and polish accessible surfaces when appropriate.

Routine Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

A routine cleaning is preventive care. A “deep cleaning” usually means scaling and root planing for diagnosed gum disease involving deeper deposits and periodontal pockets. Bleeding alone does not determine which you need; periodontal measurements, inflammation, bone levels and history help guide the diagnosis.

What Happens During the Visit?

1. Review health changes, symptoms and sensitivity.
2. Assess deposits and gum health.
3. Remove plaque and hardened calculus with professional instruments.
4. Polish when appropriate and review home-care trouble spots.
5. Complete a dentist exam or X-rays separately when due or clinically indicated.

How Often Should You Have a Cleaning?

There is no single interval for everyone. Gum health, cavity risk, previous periodontal disease, deposit buildup, dry mouth, tobacco exposure and other factors can change the recommended schedule. Your interval should follow your current risk and diagnosis.

Will It Hurt?

Comfort varies. Inflamed gums, exposed roots, sensitivity or heavier deposits can make areas tender. Tell the team where you are sensitive. If periodontal treatment is more appropriate, that should be explained before treatment.