Dental Cleaning
Routine Prophylaxis (“Prophy”) Cleaning
Prophylactic means preventative to disease. During a prophylactic cleaning, Dr. Frolov will thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas just below the gum line, using special tools. Afterward, she will polish the enamel of your teeth.
Prophylactic cleanings are generally performed twice a year, but some patients may need the plaque and tartar removed more frequently for optimal teeth and gum health. Prophy cleanings ensure the long-term health of your teeth and gums.
Deep Cleaning
Patients who have gum disease or who have not received a prophy cleaning in a long time may require a deep cleaning, otherwise known as scaling and root planing. This involves clearing the plaque and bacteria that can’t be accessed with regular brushing and flossing at home or with prophy cleanings.
For this treatment, Dr. Frolov will first determine the extent that plaque or bacteria is trapped below spaces under the gum line (otherwise known as “pocketing”). Next, she will use specialized scaling and/or ultrasonic tools to remove the bacteria, enabling the gums to heal and properly reseal around the teeth.
