Adult Cleanings and Deep Cleanings

Adult prophylaxis (regular cleaning) is done when the health of the gum tissues is ideal.

Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) must be done when there are deep pockets in the gum tissue and lots of associated bleeding.

Cleanings should be done every six months to ensure that the teeth and gum tissues maintain their state of health.

The pocket depths of the gum tissue around the teeth is too deep to be effectively cleaned with floss and a toothbrush. As a result, deep cleanings should be completed every three months to ensure that the health of the gum tissues does not deteriorate further.

If a strict hygiene schedule is not kept, then it is more likely that the affected teeth will be lost due to periodontal disease.

The most effective way to brush your teeth is twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush for two minutes. Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal(!), but at minimum it is recommended that you brush twice a day. An electric toothbrush is helpful because it is programmed to run for two minutes. In order to stop brushing before two minutes is up, you must consciously turn the toothbrush off before it’s time.

Flossing does not need to be done as often as brushing, but it is recommended to floss once daily.

The concentrations of fluoride in over-the-counter toothpastes is not harmful when used appropriately.

The biggest harm that can be done is by ignoring toothpaste instructions: do not ingest fluoride toothpastes. Follow this simple rule and you will be fine.