Deep Cleanings
A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure designed to treat gum disease and prevent it from progressing.
What to expect when receiving a deep cleaning
Curious about what happens during a dental deep cleaning? This detailed guide explains each step of the procedure, from the thorough removal of plaque and tartar below the gumline to smoothing the tooth roots to promote healing. Learn how dental deep cleanings help treat gum disease, prevent tooth loss, and maintain overall oral health. Understanding the process can help you feel more confident and prepared for your visit.
A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure designed to treat gum disease and prevent it from progressing. Here’s what typically happens during the process:
- Examination and Assessment: Your dentist or hygienist will begin by examining your gums and measuring the depth of your gum pockets. This helps determine the extent of gum disease and the areas that require treatment.
- Local Anesthesia: To ensure comfort, a local anesthetic may be applied to numb your gums and the surrounding areas.
- Scaling: The first step involves scaling, where special dental tools or ultrasonic devices are used to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gumline. This process targets areas that a regular cleaning might miss.
- Root Planing: After scaling, the dentist or hygienist will perform root planing. This involves smoothing out the rough areas on the tooth roots to help your gums reattach to the teeth, reducing the size of the gum pockets and promoting healing.
- Flushing with Antibacterial Agents: In some cases, an antibacterial rinse or medication may be applied to the gums to eliminate bacteria and further reduce inflammation.
- Post-Procedure Care: After the deep cleaning, your gums may be tender and sensitive. The dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your gums, which may include using a special mouthwash, avoiding certain foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Follow-Up Visits: Depending on the severity of gum disease, follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the disease is under control. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings will also be recommended to prevent recurrence.
Do i need a deep cleaning?
- Gum Pockets: If your gum pockets (the spaces between your teeth and gums) measure 4mm or deeper, a deep cleaning might be necessary. These deeper pockets can harbor bacteria, leading to infection and further gum deterioration.
- Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Excessive plaque and tartar, particularly below the gumline, can lead to gum disease. If regular cleanings can’t remove this buildup, a deep cleaning is needed.
- Gingivitis or Early Periodontal Disease: If you have gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) or early stages of periodontal disease, deep cleanings can help reverse the condition and prevent it from worsening.
- Gum Bleeding and Inflammation: Persistent bleeding or inflamed gums are signs that bacteria have accumulated below the gumline, indicating a need for more intensive cleaning.
- Bone Loss Around Teeth: If X-rays show that you’ve started to lose bone around your teeth, a deep cleaning can help stop the progression of periodontal disease and protect your oral health.
- Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can cause teeth to become loose. Deep cleanings can help manage the disease and stabilize your teeth.
- History of Gum Disease: If you’ve had gum disease in the past, your dentist may recommend periodic deep cleanings to prevent recurrence.
Overall, dental deep cleanings are essential for patients with gum disease to maintain healthy gums and prevent more severe dental issues.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are due for a deep cleaning or you have any questions please schedule an appointment, or contact Garden of the Gods Dentistry directly by filling out our online contact form or calling us at (719) 359-5323