Oral hygiene is an essential aspect of maintaining one’s overall health and well-being. Despite the advances in dental care, many people still struggle with maintaining good dental health. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum diseases, but they are not always enough. Sometimes, professional cleaning is necessary to remove stubborn stains and tartar buildup. A deep dental cleaning is a procedure that goes beyond routine cleaning and helps to prevent or treat gum disease. In this article, we will discuss what a deep dental cleaning is, when it’s necessary, and its benefits.
What is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
A deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. It is more invasive than regular cleaning, which only focuses on the surface of the teeth. Scaling involves scraping off the hardened plaque from the teeth and root planing involves smoothing out the rough spots on the roots where bacteria tend to accumulate. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia to make it more comfortable for the patient.
When is a Deep Dental Cleaning Necessary?
A deep dental cleaning is usually recommended when there is evidence of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth. Gum disease occurs when the buildup of plaque and tartar causes inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe conditions like periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.
Other factors that may necessitate a deep dental cleaning include:
Genetics: Some people are more prone to gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and can make it harder to treat.
Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting regular brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease.
Benefits of a Deep Dental Cleaning
Prevents Gum Disease
One of the primary benefits of deep dental cleaning is that it helps to prevent gum disease. By removing the buildup of plaque and tartar, the risk of inflammation and infection in the gums is reduced.
Promotes Good Oral Health
Deep dental cleaning promotes good oral health by removing harmful bacteria from the mouth. This can help to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral health problems.
Saves Teeth
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Deep dental cleaning can help to prevent this by removing the buildup of plaque and tartar that causes inflammation and infection in the gums.
Improves Overall Health
Gum disease has been linked to several health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By preventing gum disease, deep dental cleaning can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of these conditions.
Conclusion
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and well-being. While brushing and flossing are essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease, sometimes professional cleaning is necessary. A deep dental cleaning is a procedure that goes beyond routine cleaning and helps to prevent or treat gum disease. It is usually recommended when there is evidence of gum disease, smoking, poor oral hygiene, or certain medical conditions. The benefits of deep dental cleaning include preventing gum disease, promoting good oral health, saving teeth, and improving overall health. If you think you may need a deep dental cleaning, consult your dentist.
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