Hi,
I'm a dental hygienist and although I haven't worked in the field for 20 years, I believe I can answer your question.
#1: - Cavities aren't always picked up with x-rays; many are but not all.
#2: The main reason for a deep scaling and root planing is because of periodontal disease. We have a greater chance of losing our teeth due to periodontal issues than cavities in our age range. Contrary to what another person said, not every cleaning is "deep scaling" because not everyone needs it. Dentists and hygienists use probes to determine the need.
#3: Heavy stains are extrinsic and not removed by deep scaling (which is below the gumline) or root planing. They're generally removed with instruments, ultrasonic scalers, and polishing with prophy paste that contains pumice.
Hope that helps a little. I don't know which dentist you were seeing in Ocala, but I can highly recommend Stephen Dunn.
Best wishes.
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