Dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure done by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove bacteria and plaque from teeth and gums. It is typically recommended for patients who have not had regular dental cleanings or have advanced gum disease. In this blog, we will discuss what dental deep cleaning is and why it is important.
What Is Dental Deep Cleaning?
Dental deep cleaning is a non-surgical procedure that involves two parts: scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums using specialized instruments, including an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments. Root planing involves smoothing out rough spots on the tooth roots, which helps prevent bacteria and plaque from sticking to the teeth.
Who Needs Dental Deep Cleaning?
Dental deep cleaning is typically recommended for patients who have not had regular dental cleanings or have advanced gum disease. Signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, and bad breath.
Why Is Dental Deep Cleaning Important?
Dental deep cleaning is important because it helps prevent the progression of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. It also helps improve oral hygiene and prevents the buildup of bacteria that can lead to bad breath.
What Can You Expect During A Dental Deep Cleaning?
During a dental deep cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. They will then use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. The procedure may take multiple appointments, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
What Is The Recovery Process Like?
After a dental deep cleaning, patients may experience some discomfort and sensitivity in the treated area. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque. The dentist may also recommend follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s oral health and prevent the progression of gum disease.
Conclusion
Dental deep cleaning is an important procedure for maintaining good oral health and preventing the progression of gum disease. It is recommended for patients who have not had regular dental cleanings or have advanced gum disease. If you have concerns about your oral health, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options.
How is deep cleaning different from regular cleaning?
Regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a basic cleaning procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of teeth. Deep cleaning is a more comprehensive procedure that involves scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line.
Who needs deep cleaning?
Deep cleaning is recommended for individuals who have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria buildup in the gums, and it can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated. Deep cleaning is also recommended for individuals who have not had a dental cleaning in a long time or have excessive plaque buildup.
Is deep cleaning painful?
Deep cleaning can cause some discomfort or sensitivity, especially if the gum disease is advanced. However, the dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area and minimize pain during the procedure. After the procedure, some mild discomfort and sensitivity may be present, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and following the dentist’s post-operative instructions.
