Routine Cleaning & Exams

At CCED, we handle more than just emergencies. Need a general check-up or an appointment for your regular teeth cleaning? We’ve got Center City and the entire Philadelphia area covered. Our hygienists are always available for fillings, cleanings, and routine exams to prepare you for a doctor’s evaluation. Our facility houses both general dentists and skilled specialists who are ready to provide any service you need.

Types of Oral Cleaning:

– General teeth cleaning (Prophylaxis)

– Deep teeth cleaning (Scaling & Root Planning)

Prophylaxis (General Cleaning)

Visiting the dentist for routine teeth cleaning is important to maintain good oral health. Dentists recommend that patients come in every six months for a Prophy (short for Prophylaxis) to remove residue from the teeth that brushing and flossing leaves behind. This thorough cleaning helps prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease from progressing.

Scaling & Root Planning – Deep Cleaning

This type of procedure consists of a deep cleaning below the gum line. Patients suffering from gum disease (periodontitis) typically require this type of teeth cleaning, which should be done every three to four months. Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, causes gums to recede and form spaces called pockets. Unfortunately, brushing and flossing alone can’t remove the debris stuck in these pockets. To remove that debris, you need a dental professional with the right tools.

There are two parts to a scaling and root planning procedure:

1. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line all the way to the bottom of the pocket.
2. Root planning re-attaches your gums to your teeth by smoothing out the roots. This procedure may require a local anesthetic. Therefore, to avoid numbing the entire mouth, a scaling and root planning procedure could take more than one visit to the dentist.

After the procedure, you may feel some pain and sensitivity for up to a week. You may also experience some tenderness, bleeding, and swelling. See our aftercare tips for taking care of the treated site properly.

Why Get a Routine Cleaning?

Regular teeth cleanings prevent plaque and tartar from causing problems in the future.

Plaque is a soft, white residue that remains on your teeth after eating. Plaque can easily be removed by brushing your teeth — however, if you neglect your teeth, this debris can build up and turn into tartar (also known as calculus), which is a hard buildup that is not easily removed by flossing or brushing. Our dental professionals have the necessary tools and equipment to remove the hard buildup that can lead to gum disease.

Cleanings help banish bad breath.

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a sign of oral diseases such as gingivitis/periodontitis. Causes of bad breath include food debris stuck in between teeth or on the gum line and/or a gum infection. Scheduling routine check-ups and teeth cleanings with your dentist and hygienist can help keep bad breath from getting in the way of your daily activities.

Clean teeth create a beautiful smile.

Teeth cleanings can help remove unwanted stains on teeth. Stained, yellow, and dull-colored teeth can hinder your confidence and prevent you from showcasing your smile. At CCED, we want your smile to shine so you can make a great first impression everywhere you go.

Periodontal Disease Cleanings

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is more common than you might think. It starts with plaque buildup on your teeth and can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums. Left untreated, it can cause severe damage to your teeth and bones, even leading to tooth loss.

Routine dental cleanings at Center City Emergency Dentists can help manage and treat periodontal disease effectively. Our dental hygienists use deep dental cleaning techniques to remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach. This helps prevent further gum disease and promotes overall oral health by protecting your teeth and gums from decay and other issues.

How Often Should I Get Dental Cleanings?

Routine dental cleanings are important for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing tooth decay. But how often should you get them? Most dental professionals recommend visiting your dentist for a routine dental cleaning every six months. However, depending on your oral health, your dentist might suggest more frequent visits. For instance, if you have a history of gum disease, you may need cleanings every three to four months to keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition.

Regular dental exams during these cleanings allow your dentist to monitor your oral health closely. They check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other potential oral health problems. During a cleaning, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and provide personalized advice on maintaining oral hygiene at home. This approach helps keep your mouth healthy and minimizes the risk of cavities and gum disease.

What Is a Complete Dental Exam?

A complete dental exam is a thorough evaluation of your oral health. It is all about understanding the full picture of your dental hygiene and overall health. During these exams, our dentists look into every aspect of your teeth and gums, helping detect any potential issues early on.

Here’s what we check for during a complete dental exam:

• Tooth decay and cavities
• Gum disease and periodontal pockets
• Early signs of oral cancer
• Bite and jaw alignment
• Condition of existing dental work (fillings, crowns, etc.)
• Plaque and tartar buildup
• Dental x-rays to detect problems below the surface
• Dental sealants effectiveness

Why Routine Dental Exams Are Important

Routine dental exams are vital for catching problems early before they escalate into more significant issues. Regular exams help identify tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues at their earliest stages, making them easier and less stressful to treat.

Benefits of routine dental exams include:

• Preventing tooth decay and loss
• Keeping gums healthy
• Reducing the need for extensive dental work
• Detecting oral cancer early
• Maintaining overall oral hygiene

Are There Any Risks to My Dental Exams?

Dental exams are generally very safe and carry minimal risks. However, some people might experience temporary discomfort or sensitivity following a deep dental cleaning, especially if they have sensitive teeth or existing dental issues. This discomfort usually subsides within a day or two.

Dental x-rays, used sparingly during exams, expose you to low levels of radiation. However, this is a fairly minimal risk and something you won’t have to worry about. At Center City Emergency Dentists, we take every precaution to put your safety and comfort first during your dental exams.

In rare cases, individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies might react to materials used during the exam. Always inform your dentist about any known allergies or medical conditions before the exam.

What CCED Can Do for You:

Our experienced dentists in Center City, Philadelphia, such as Dr. Tummillo, Dr. Cabrera, and the rest of our providers, recommend that Prophylaxis be done twice a year (or every six months) and every three to four months for patients dealing with periodontitis. By reaching those hard-to-clean areas you might be neglecting when you brush and floss, we can remove stubborn plaque and tartar and prevent future oral problems.

Our Center City Emergency Dentist facility houses over 10 experienced dental health providers with multiple specialties. As our patient, you’ll receive all the quality care you need without having to leave our office. From general check-ups to emergency dental care, CCED can do it all. Give us a call to schedule your routine check-up, or make an appointment with one of our specialists!