Dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a common dental procedure used to treat gum disease. The procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, as well as smoothing the surfaces of the roots to prevent further buildup. In this article, we will explore how long a dental deep cleaning takes and what to expect during and after the procedure.
Step 1: Evaluation and Planning
Before the dental deep cleaning procedure can begin, the dentist or dental hygienist will evaluate the patient’s oral health and determine the extent of the gum disease. This may involve taking x-rays or using other diagnostic tools to assess the condition of the teeth and gums.
Based on the evaluation, the dentist or dental hygienist will develop a treatment plan that outlines the steps needed to restore the patient’s oral health. This may involve multiple appointments for the dental deep cleaning procedure, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Step 2: Numbing the Area
To minimize any discomfort or pain during the procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will numb the area around the affected teeth and gums using a local anesthetic. This may involve injecting the anesthetic into the gum tissue or using a topical numbing gel.
Step 3: Removing Plaque and Tartar
Once the area is numb, the dentist or dental hygienist will use a dental instrument called a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. This may involve using a combination of hand-held scalers and ultrasonic scalers, which use high-frequency vibrations to break up and remove plaque and tartar.
The dentist or dental hygienist will carefully clean between the teeth and along the gum line to remove any buildup. This may take some time, especially if there is a significant amount of plaque and tartar present.
Step 4: Root Planing
After the plaque and tartar have been removed, the dentist or dental hygienist will smooth the surfaces of the roots using a special dental instrument. This process, known as root planing, helps to prevent further buildup of plaque and tartar and promotes healing of the gums.
Step 5: Antibacterial Treatment
To help prevent further infection and promote healing, the dentist or dental hygienist may apply an antibacterial treatment to the gums. This may involve using a topical antibiotic or placing an antibiotic gel or chip directly into the gum tissue.
Step 6: Follow-Up Appointments
Depending on the severity of the gum disease, the dental deep cleaning procedure may need to be completed in multiple appointments. The dentist or dental hygienist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure that the gum disease is under control.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the dental deep cleaning procedure, the patient may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated areas. This is normal and should subside within a few days. The dentist or dental hygienist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe medication to help manage any discomfort.
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene after the dental deep cleaning procedure to prevent further buildup of plaque and tartar. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
In some cases, patients may experience complications after a dental deep cleaning procedure, such as infection or bleeding. If you experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort after the procedure, contact your dentist or dental hygienist right away.
Conclusion
Dental deep cleaning is a common dental procedure used to treat gum disease. The procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, as well as smoothing the surfaces of the roots to prevent further buildup. The procedure may take multiple appointments, depending on the severity of the gum disease. After the procedure, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent further buildup of plaque and tartar. If you suspect that you have gum disease or other dental issues, schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss the best treatment options for your needs. With proper care and treatment, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
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