Hygiene vs. Periodontal Treatment: What’s the difference ?

Many people assume a trip to the dentist for hygiene is the same as periodontal treatment, but there’s a distinct difference between the two. Understanding this difference is key to maintaining a healthy mouth and knowing what to expect from your dental professional.

A standard dental hygiene appointment is all about prevention and maintenance. It's the routine cleaning you should have every six months to a year. During this visit, a clinician will perform a scale and polish to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and the gum line. They'll also provide oral hygiene instructions, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques, and offer advice on diet and lifestyle choices that impact your dental health. Think of this as a regular service for your teeth, designed to keep them in top condition and prevent issues from developing.

Periodontal treatment, on the other hand, is a more intensive procedure for individuals who have progressed from gingivitis (early gum inflammation) to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic destructive bacterial imbalance that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. This treatment goes beyond a simple scale and polish. It involves a deeper cleaning procedure that includes the principles of hygiene above the gum, as well as Professional Mechanical Plaque Removal (PMPR), below the gum. A dental professional meticulously cleans the root surfaces to remove bacteria, tartar and debris, which helps the periodontal ligament reattach to the teeth. Depending on the severity, additional treatments like antibiotics or even surgery may be necessary.

In short, a hygiene appointment is preventative, while periodontal treatment is corrective. Regular dental hygiene is your best defence against needing more advanced periodontal care down the line.

In our Denplan Essentials Plans, Hygiene is included, but Periodontal Treatment is charged for, with a 10% discount.