In a city where the aroma of *tortas ahogadas* and the crunch of churros from San Juan de Dios Market are part of daily life, it’s normal for teeth to face unique challenges. But here’s a secret: 70% of the patients we treat in Guadalajara don’t know the difference between a dental cleaning and a root planing—two key treatments that can make the difference between keeping or losing your teeth. Are you one of them? Keep reading…
1. Dental cleaning: The basic “engine wash” for your mouth 🧽
What does it do?
- Removes superficial tartar (the kind that builds up near the gums and looks like a yellow line).
- Ideal si tienes:
- Encías rosadas pero con placa visible.
- Hábitos como tomar café de la Parroquia diario.
Process at our clinic (Tapatío technology):
- Fine-tip ultrasound: Gently vibrates to remove tartar without damaging the enamel.
- Air Flow with bicarbonate: Removes mole or tejuino stains with a stream of microscopic particles.
- Polishing with horchata flavor: Yes, our prophylactic paste has a horchata aroma so you leave with a smile!
2. Root planing: When tartar hides away 🩺
What does it do?
- Removes subgingival tartar (below the gums), which causes inflammation, bad breath, and bone loss.
- Necesario si:
- Tus encías sangran al comer una torta ahogada.
- Sientes que tus dientes están «flojos».
Process with cutting-edge technology in GDL:
- Digital probing: We use a device that measures the depth of periodontal pockets down to the millimeter.
- Diode laser: For severe cases, it vaporizes bacteria without bleeding (ideal for patients who are afraid of the dentist).
- Smoothing with fine curettes: Gentle but effective.
3. Comparison table
| Aspect | Dental Cleaning | Root Planing |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 30 min (like a shortened Chivas game) | 1–2 hours (like a movie at Cinépolis) |
| Average cost | 900−900−1,800 MXN | 3,500−3,500−6,500 MXN |
| Technology | Ultrasound + Air Flow | Ultrasound + Air Flow |
| Postoperative | You can eat tortas ahogadas the next day | White pozole and rice diet for 3 days |
| Frequency | Every 6 months | According to diagnosis |
4. Cleaning or root planing? 🩺
Signs that you only need a cleaning:
- You have visible tartar in the mirror (yellow on teeth).
- Your gums bleed regularly.
Signs that you need ROOT PLANING:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Teeth that move:.
- Encías retraídas que hacen ver tus dientes «más largos».
5. Myths you need to forget 🚫
- Myth 1: “Root planing hurts a lot” → Reality: We use topical anesthesia.
- Myth 2: “If I get root planing, I won’t need cleanings anymore” → Reality: The truth is, both complement each other.
- Myth 3: “Tartar comes back right away” → Reality: With xylitol rinses and check-ups, you can keep it under control.
6. Post-treatment care 🌟
After cleaning:
- First 24h: Avoid staining foods (e.g., tejuino, café de olla).
- Ideal routine: Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
After root planing:
- Alimentación:
- Día 1: Pozole blanco (sin limón ni chile).
- Día 2: Sopa de tortilla (sin crema ni queso).
- Día 3: Quesadillas de requesón.
7. Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Does root planing hurt?
- “It doesn’t hurt. We use topical anesthesia.”
Conclusión: En Guadalajara, tu sonrisa es tu carta de presentación 💙
Whether you’re speaking on the Tourist Tram, negotiating in Andares, or selling crafts in Tlaquepaque, a healthy smile opens doors. At our clinic, we don’t just use cutting-edge technology—we understand your Tapatío lifestyle.
