If you have been told by your dentist that you need a deep cleaning dental procedure, you may be wondering what it entails and why it’s necessary. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, and explain its benefits for maintaining good oral health.
What is a Deep Cleaning Dental Procedure?
Deep cleaning dental procedure, also referred to as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical treatment that involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, which is characterized by inflammation, bleeding, and recession of the gums.
Deep Cleaning Dental Procedure Process
The process of deep cleaning is typically done in two separate appointments, each focusing on different areas of the mouth. Here’s what you can expect during each appointment:
Appointment 1: Scaling
During the scaling appointment, your dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gum line. They will also smooth out rough spots on the roots of your teeth, where bacteria tend to accumulate.
- Local anesthesia: To ensure your comfort during the process, your dentist may administer local anesthesia to help numb the area being treated.
- Ultrasonic scaler: Your dentist may use an ultrasonic scaler, which uses high-frequency vibrations to loosen and remove plaque and tartar.
- Hand-held instruments: Your dentist will use hand-held instruments such as curettes to remove any remaining plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas.
- Irrigation: Finally, your dentist will flush the area with water or an antimicrobial rinse to remove any loose debris and bacteria.
Appointment 2: Root Planing
During the root planing appointment, your dentist or hygienist will smooth out the rough spots on the roots of your teeth to help prevent future buildup of plaque and tartar. They will also remove any remaining bacteria from the pockets between your teeth and gums.
- Local anesthesia: As with the scaling appointment, your dentist may administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
- Planing instruments: Your dentist will use planing instruments such as curettes or scalers to smooth out the rough spots on the roots of your teeth.
- Antimicrobial treatment: Once the planing is complete, your dentist may apply an antimicrobial treatment to kill any remaining bacteria in the pockets between your teeth and gums.
Benefits of a Deep Cleaning Dental Procedure
A deep cleaning dental procedure offers several benefits for patients with gum disease:
- Prevents Further Damage
By removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, deep cleaning can prevent further damage to the gums and teeth. This helps to slow down or halt the progression of gum disease and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
- Promotes Healing
Deep cleaning can also promote healing by removing the bacteria that cause inflammation and infection in the gums. This allows the gums to begin repairing themselves and reattaching to the teeth.
- Improves Oral Health
Maintaining good oral health is important not only for your teeth and gums but also for your overall health. Deep cleaning can help improve your oral health by reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
Tips for Post-Procedure Care
After your deep cleaning dental procedure, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Here are a few tips for post-procedure care:
- Brush and Floss Regularly
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from your teeth and gums.
- Use a Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill any remaining bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Attend Regular Check-ups
Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar and catch oral health problems early on.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease and delay healing after a deep cleaning procedure. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your overall oral health.
Conclusion
A deep cleaning dental procedure is a non-surgical treatment that can help improve your oral health by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. It offers several benefits for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, including preventing further damage, promoting healing, and improving overall oral health. By practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular check-ups, you can maintain the health of your teeth and gums and enjoy a confident, healthy smile for years to come.
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