Sometimes....It's not just a cleaning.

Patients often call to schedule an appointment for "just a cleaning". Because many dental plans cover two "dental cleanings" a year.

But did you know the reason "dental cleanings" are covered twice a year is because it is a preventative service to prevent dental conditions that require more than "just a cleaning"?

Preventative dental cleanings are performed when there is no presence of gum disease. Meaning, there is little to no inflammation or bleeding, bone loss, or calcified build up below the gum line. These conditions are generally an indication of gingivitis or periodontitis, an infection of the gums and jaw bone.

Preventative cleanings are performed above the gum line and generally removes soft deposits, buildup and staining. Periodontal therapy cleanings require trained and licensed dental providers to remove build up and deposits below the gum line, to reduce inflammation, eliminate infection and prevent progression of bone loss.

So if you're looking in the mirror and you notice that your gums are swollen, puffy, red or bleed when your brushing; your next visit may not be "just a cleaning".

#notjustacleaning #saveyourteeth