So many people avoid "cleanings" and "deep cleaning" because they are afraid it's going to hurt.  People with gum disease often have exposed roots that are very sensitive.  Then when they postpone treatment, it gets worse.  One of our most fearful and sensitive patients came in last week for a long overdue "cleaning."  As a confirmed "control freak," she didn't want to be sedated, especially for a short appointment like hygiene.  And she didn't want any injections.  Our hygienist is a pro at handling this type of patient.  Her first line of defense is Dentsply Oraqix.  Oraqix is a topical anesthetic that is dispensed via a blunt tip directly in to the periodontal pocket.  It is amazingly effective at numbing both the pocket and the exposed root surface.  Our hygienist spends a significant percentage of the appointment using microultrasonics with warm water to disrupt the biofilm.  Patients much prefer this to vigorous "scraping" with scalers.  However, with Oraqix doing its job, hand scaling is completely comfortable, even for sensitive patients.  This particular patient has now agreed to come in for regular "cleanings"--and exams.  Give Oraqix a try--your patients will thank you for it!  You can get Oraqix from your Dentsply distributor.