Professional Cleaning Flashcards
(17 cards)
What personal protective equipment is needed when performing a dental cleaning?
- Cap/bonnet
- Mask
- Safety glasses/goggles/face shield
- Scrubs and lab coat
- Ear plugs may be needed
- Dosimeter and shielding for radiology
Pathogens and debris can be aerosolized, and tooth fragments can become projectiles.
Why is it important to place the largest size ET tube and inflate the cuff properly?
To minimize fluids and materials from entering the trachea and esophagus.
What is the purpose of applying chlorhexidine gluconate 0.1% to the teeth?
- Aids in human and animal safety
- Decreases bacterial load before mechanical scaling
- Minimizes aerosolization of bacteria
It is applied before dental procedures.
What type of radiographs are recommended for all dental procedures?
Full mouth radiographs.
What is supragingival scaling?
Scaling above the gumline using a combination of mechanical scaler and hand scaling, commonly utilizing ultrasonic scalers and hand scalers.
What methods are included in subgingival scaling?
- Adaptation
- Angulation
Removal of plaque/tartar below the gumline is the goal.
What tools are typically used for subgingival scaling?
- Curettes
- Piezo ultrasonic tips
Piezo ultrasonic tips can go under the gum.
What grip is used for hand scaling?
Modified pen grip.
How long can teeth be polished during a dental cleaning?
3-5 seconds per tooth.
What is the purpose of a probe during a dental cleaning?
To measure periodontal pockets.
What is the purpose of an explorer during a dental cleaning?
To detect calculus and explore pulp chambers.
What is the normal sulcus depth for dogs and cats?
- Dog: 1-3mm
- Cat: 0.5-1mm.
How many readings should be taken on each tooth?
Minimum 4 readings.
Can a normal periodontal pocket depth (PPD) occur with abnormal gingiva?
Yes.
What findings do we chart during a dental cleaning?
Only abnormal findings.
How quickly does plaque form, calculus form, and gingivitis start?
- Plaque: 24 hours
- Calculus: 3 days
- Gingivitis: 2 weeks.
What are the steps involved in a professional dental cleaning?
- Examine patient
- Full mouth radiographs
- Supragingival and subgingival scaling
- Polishing
- Oral evaluation, charting and probing
- Additional treatment
- Dental sealant
- Home care.
