Dental Cleaning Terminology

General Cleaning Terms

• Dental Hygienist: A licensed oral healthcare professional who provides preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and patient education.
• Plaque: A sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.
• Prophylaxis (Prophy): A professional teeth cleaning that removes plaque, tartar, and stains.
• Tartar (Calculus): Hardened plaque that can build up on teeth and below the gumline.

Types of Cleanings

• Gross Debridement: An initial cleaning for patients with excessive plaque and tartar buildup.
• Periodontal Maintenance: Ongoing cleanings for patients with gum disease to maintain gum health.
• Prophylaxis Cleaning: A routine cleaning for patients with healthy teeth and gums.
• Scaling and Root Planing (SRP): A deep cleaning procedure to remove tartar and bacteria from below the gumline.

Related Terms

• Fluoride Treatment: A treatment that strengthens enamel and helps prevent tooth decay.
• Gingivitis: Early stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums.
• Oral Irrigation: The use of a pulsating stream of water to clean between teeth and around the gumline.
• Periodontal pockets: Spaces or gaps that form between the gums and teeth due to gum disease.
• Periodontitis: Advanced stage of gum disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth.