Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. However, if your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, you may be wondering what it entails. In this article, we will explore what deep cleaning at the dentist means and what it involves.
What is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that goes beyond regular cleaning. It involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can cause gum disease. The procedure is usually recommended for patients who have signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums, bad breath, and bleeding when brushing or flossing.
What Does Deep Cleaning Involve?
- Examination
Before the deep cleaning procedure, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine the severity of the problem. They may take X-rays to check for bone loss and to see if there are any deep pockets between your teeth and gums.
- Numbing
Your dentist may use local anesthesia to numb the gums and teeth to minimize discomfort during the deep cleaning procedure.
- Scaling
Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line using specialized dental tools. The dentist will use a scaler to remove the tartar from the surface of the tooth and the root planer to smooth the root surfaces of the tooth.
- Root Planing
Root planing is a procedure that involves smoothing the root surfaces of the tooth to remove any rough spots that can attract bacteria and cause gum disease. The dentist will use a root planer to remove the rough spots and create a smooth surface.
- Antibiotics
After the deep cleaning procedure, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate any remaining bacteria that can cause infection.
- Follow-Up Appointment
Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress and make sure your gums are healing properly. They may also recommend additional treatments, such as gum grafting or gum surgery, if necessary.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning has several benefits, including:
- Improved Oral Health – Deep cleaning helps to remove harmful bacteria that cause gum disease, improving overall oral health.
- Prevents Tooth Loss – By removing bacteria and preventing further buildup of plaque and tartar, deep cleaning helps to prevent tooth loss.
- Fresher Breath – Deep cleaning eliminates the bad breath caused by periodontitis, giving patients fresher breath.
- Healthier Gums – Deep cleaning helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums, leading to healthier gums.
When to Get a Deep Cleaning
A dentist may recommend deep cleaning if:
- A patient has gum disease: If a patient has advanced gum disease, deep cleaning will be necessary to stop the progression of the disease.
- There is significant plaque build-up: If there is a significant build-up of plaque and tartar around the teeth, deep cleaning will be necessary to remove it.
- The patient has not had a cleaning in a long time: If a patient has not had a dental cleaning in a long time, many deposits may have built up, making deep cleaning necessary.
- See Also: When do you need scaling and root planing
What to Expect During the Procedure
During the procedure, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort. The procedure itself may take several appointments, depending on the severity of the condition.
Aftercare
After the procedure, patients may experience some soreness and sensitivity. They should:
- Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days.
- Continue to brush and floss regularly.
- Use a mouthwash recommended by the dentist.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor progress.
Deep cleaning at the dentist is a crucial procedure for maintaining good oral health. It involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line, smoothing the root surfaces of the tooth, and prescribing antibiotics if necessary. If you have signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums, bad breath, or bleeding when brushing or flossing, talk to your dentist about deep cleaning. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.
Related Topics:
