When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing regularly are essential habits. However, sometimes regular brushing and flossing may not be enough to remove all the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. That’s where deep cleaning comes in – a dental procedure that involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums, using specialized tools to remove the buildup of plaque, calculus, and stains from the surface of the teeth and below the gum line.
What is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure that is performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist. The process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line, which cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. It is a more intensive cleaning than a routine dental checkup and cleaning.
The Procedure:
During the deep cleaning procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools such as an ultrasonic scaler, hand scalers, and curettes to scrape away the plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums. The ultrasonic scaler uses high-frequency vibrations to break up the hardened plaque and tartar, while the hand scalers and curettes are used to remove any remaining buildup manually.
The dentist or dental hygienist will also perform root planing, which involves smoothing out rough spots on the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from adhering to them. Root planing promotes healthy gum tissue, which can reduce the risk of gum disease.
Duration of Deep Cleaning:
The duration of a deep cleaning procedure depends on several factors, including the severity of the plaque and tartar buildup, the number of teeth that require cleaning, and the patient’s overall oral health. Generally, a deep cleaning may take between one to two hours to complete, but in some cases, it may take longer.
If only one quadrant of the mouth requires deep cleaning, the procedure may take approximately 30-45 minutes. However, if all four quadrants need to be cleaned, it may take up to two hours. In some cases, the dentist may need to schedule multiple appointments to complete the deep cleaning procedure.
Recovery Time:
After a deep cleaning procedure, patients may experience sensitivity and soreness in their gums and teeth. This discomfort should subside within a few days, and patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Patients may be advised to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days and to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
Conclusion:
Deep cleaning is an essential dental procedure that helps maintain healthy teeth and gums by removing plaque and tartar buildup. The duration of the procedure depends on several factors, including the severity of the buildup and the number of teeth that require cleaning. While recovery time is minimal, it is crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions to promote healing and prevent any complications.
