Every patient will be evaluated by Dr. Hedges and a hygienist during their comprehensive exam. There are various types of cleanings that are recognized by the American Dental Association. Clinical and radiographic findings will determine the type of cleaning that will be recommended to you. If you have not had a professional dental cleaning for a number of years or if you are predisposed to gum disease, you may need a more extensive cleaning than a prophy (cleaning above the gumline only). This is most commonly referred to as a “deep cleaning”.