The phrase “It’s just a cleaning” is often used by dentists, dental assistants, patients, and the public to describe periodontal therapy or prophylaxis. However, this terminology grossly oversimplifies the complexity and importance of the procedure. Dental hygienists, who are highly trained oral health care professionals, will be the first to tell you that it is not just a cleaning.
Dental hygienists play a critical role in prevention — not just of oral diseases but also systemic health issues that can be influenced by oral conditions. Dental hygienists are not just tooth cleaners; we are trained oral healthcare professionals dedicated to preventing disease and promoting overall health.
How the term “cleaning” misrepresents dental hygiene
For years, dental hygienists have fought for autonomy and recognition as essential healthcare providers. The term “cleaning” diminishes the scope of our work and the impact we have on patients’ health. It perpetuates the misconception that our job is limited to polishing teeth and making them look whiter. In reality, we remove soft and hard deposits from the entire tooth structure and address issues beyond aesthetics. We also review medical histories, determining the need for medical clearances, blood pressure screenings, sleep apnea screenings, laser therapy, local anesthesia injections for comfortable care, nutritional counseling, referral to other health care providers, and managing dental disease.
The importance of dental prophylaxis
Dental prophylaxis is a comprehensive procedure designed to maintain oral health and prevent systemic complications. Here’s a deeper look into its significance:
1. Managing inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can harm healthy tissues. In the mouth, prolonged inflammation manifests as gingivitis, which can progress to periodontitis and tooth loss if untreated. Periodontitis is a localized chronic infection that can exacerbate systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. By removing debris and bacteria beneath the gumline, dental hygienists help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
2. Systemic health connections
The mouth is the gateway to the body, and oral health significantly impacts systemic health. Dental hygienists are trained to identify conditions like sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and early signs of heart disease or hypertension. Regular assessments can also support patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or preparing for medical procedures such as joint replacements. These connections highlight the critical role of dental hygienists in comprehensive health care.
3. Preventing tooth decay and gum disease
Removing bacterial biofilm and calculus helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. These issues, if left untreated, can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Prophylaxis also aids in maintaining fresh breath by eliminating odor-causing bacteria.
4. Tailored care for individual needs
Every patient is unique, and their oral health care should reflect that. Some individuals may require more frequent debridement to control biofilm accumulation and stimulate healing in deep gum pockets. Others may need specialized care to address a high risk of cavities or systemic health concerns. Dental hygienists tailor their approach to meet these diverse needs, ensuring optimal outcomes for each patient.
5. Education and prevention
Dental hygienists provide invaluable education on mechanical cleaning techniques and nutritional guidance to help patients maintain a healthy lifestyle. We also educate patients about blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as we may be the first to begin those conversations before they are referred to a physician. This proactive approach empowers patients to take charge of their oral and systemic health.
Why dental hygiene is more than “just a cleaning”
Dental hygienists do more than clean teeth. We:
- Detect and address inflammation and infection
- Identify systemic health conditions
- Support patients through complex medical treatments
- Educate and empower individuals to prevent disease
- Provide tailored care to meet specific health needs
While we do improve the appearance of teeth by removing stains and smoothing surfaces, this is one of the least significant aspects of our work. Our primary focus is prevention and health promotion — for the mouth and the entire body.
Frequency of care
For many patients, a six-month interval between appointments is sufficient to maintain oral health. However, individuals with specific conditions may require more frequent visits to control biofilm, reduce inflammation, and prevent disease progression. Regular dental debridement is essential for these patients to maintain their overall health.
The next time someone refers to dental prophylaxis as “just a cleaning,” consider the broader implications of the procedure. Dental hygienists are essential healthcare providers who contribute significantly to preventing disease and promoting systemic health. By recognizing and respecting their role, we can elevate the profession and enhance the health of our communities.
At University of Bridgeport’s Fones School of Dental Hygiene, we train students to think beyond ‘just a cleaning’ and approach oral health with a preventive, whole-body perspective.
Amanda Sargent, MSDH, RDH, is an assistant clinical professor in the Fones Dental Hygiene program at University of Bridgeport. She teaches Clinical Dental Hygiene to first- and second-year students. A lifelong dental professional, she received her master’s degree from UB Fones in 2019. She is an avid reader and a weekend day tripper since moving to Connecticut from New Jersey to join the UB team.