Hygiene

Our Dental Hygienists are here to help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. They work with our doctors to examine patients for any signs of oral diseases, such as periodontal disease or gingivitis, and provide preventative treatment.

Meet our Hygienists

Prophylaxis Cleaning

Dental prophylaxis cleanings, also known as a regular teeth cleanings, are one of the most important dental treatments in the prevention of gum disease and tooth decay. They consist of thoroughly cleaning the area above the gum line of all plaque and tartar that may have accumulated since your last visit, resulting in the removal of stains, fresher breath, and improved oral health. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular teeth cleanings twice annually as a preventative measure, but is recommended every 3-4 months for those who suffer from periodontitis.

Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure which removes plaque and tartar stuck above and below the gumline. Scaling is the process of using a scaling instrument to scrape off existing plaque and tartar. Root planing is the process of smoothing the tooth’s root surfaces, allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach itself to the tooth. This procedure is necessary after the gums, bones, and surrounding tissues have become damaged due to periodontal disease.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis and gum disease, affects the gum tissue and bone that surrounds your teeth. It is caused when a gum infection called gingivitis is left untreated. Periodontal disease affects the connection points between your teeth and gums, creating pockets between the teeth and gums where more food and bacteria can easily accumulate. This can lead to recessed gum tissue and significant bone loss. When periodontal disease has reached this point, our endodontist can treat the gums to prevent the condition from worsening. This treatment is used in conjunction with three month periodontal maintenance visits (deep gum cleanings) with one of our hygienists.

More Hygiene Services

Dental Exam

A dental exam is a routine check of your overall oral health. It consists of your hygienist checking behind and between your teeth for any warning signs of cavities, measure the depth of the pockets in your gums around your teeth, as well as checking your gums for swelling, redness, or sores. This is also when your hygienist will be taking any necessary x-rays to examine areas that are not visible with the naked eye.

Sealants

Sealants are a common preventative measure that is taken when your hygienist identifies certain teeth that are prone to decay. Deeper pits and fissures on the teeth are more likely to trap food and plaque which will eventually lead to decay if not removed. Sealants are placed in these pits and fissures to create a barrier which prevents this harmful buildup.

Oral Cancer Screening

Initial stages of oral cancer may not be noticed by the patient, so your hygienist will look closer for early signs of lesions, sores, or ulcers. They will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, the insides of your lips and cheeks, the sides of your tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. This exam happens at every routine dental visit.