Healthy teeth and gums are essential for your overall appearance, self-confidence, and well-being. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can cause gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to problems such as periodontal pockets, tooth decay, bad breath, and even tooth loss. This common dental condition not only affects your oral health but also impacts your general health and can leave you with an unattractive smile. Regular brushing and flossing and routine dental cleanings help maintain dental health. However, when these measures are insufficient, a dentist may recommend deep cleaning. Deep teeth cleaning helps restore the health of your gums and prevent the progression of gum disease.
What is Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning, also known as periodontal cleaning or scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure that focuses on removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from both above and below the gum line. This process also involves smoothing out any rough spots on the roots of your teeth.
This type of cleaning is used to treat periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that destroys the tissues and jawbone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. Furthermore, studies have linked periodontitis to other health issues such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes.
A deep teeth cleaning is usually performed by a dentist or periodontist, a specialist in treating the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Depending on the extent of the disease and patient preference, the procedure may or may not be done under local anesthesia.
Difference Between Deep Cleaning and Regular Cleaning
Regular teeth cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive measure typically recommended twice a year. During this appointment, a dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from above the gumline. Regular cleaning helps prevent dental issues like cavities and gingivitis, which are caused by built-up plaque and tartar. This standard cleaning helps maintain your overall dental health.
In contrast, deep teeth cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure designed to treat periodontitis. This cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline and smoothing the roots of the teeth. The goal of deep cleaning is to halt the progression of periodontitis and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Regular cleaning is preventative maintenance, helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, deep cleaning goes further by addressing existing gum disease. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning if regular cleanings are insufficient to restore your gum health.
Why You May Need Deep Cleaning of Teeth?
Deep teeth cleaning is often recommended for patients with periodontitis. Dental plaque, a sticky and colorless film of bacteria, accumulates on the surface of your teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis.
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and tender gums that bleed easily when you brush your teeth or floss. Gingivitis is a reversible condition. It can be reversed with professional dental care, such as routine cleanings and improved oral hygiene habits.
However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis occurs when the gums pull away from the teeth, creating spaces known as periodontal pockets. These pockets are difficult to clean and can fill with bacteria and food particles, causing further damage. Deep teeth cleanings are essential for removing this harmful bacteria and stopping the progression of gum disease.
Signs You Need a Deep Dental Cleaning
- Persistent bad breath even after tooth brushing and flossing.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when you brush your teeth or floss.
- Pain or discomfort when chewing.
- Receding gums and bone loss around teeth, making your teeth look longer than usual.
- Gum pockets are a noticeable gap between your teeth and gums.
- Pus pocket in the gums and discharge.
- Loose teeth and tooth loss.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Some common risk factors can increase your chances of developing periodontitis, an advanced gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup on the surface of your teeth and gums.
- Smoking and tobacco use: These habits significantly increase the risk of gum disease.
- Certain medications: Medications that reduce saliva flow (xerostomia) can contribute to gum disease.
- Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause an increase in gum inflammation and lead to gum disease.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and AIDS can affect your gum health.
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to a higher risk of developing periodontal disease.
How is the Deep Teeth Cleaning Procedure Done?
Deep teeth cleaning is a comprehensive dental care process that involves two key steps: scaling and root planing.
Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from both above and below the gum line. A dentist or periodontist will use a dental scaler to carefully clean the surface of your teeth. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar that regular dental cleanings may miss, especially in the deeper pockets between your teeth and gums.
Root planing smooths out rough spots on the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria and plaque to adhere. This step helps the gums reattach to the teeth, reducing periodontal pockets and promoting healing. Your periodontist may also prescribe antibiotics or an antimicrobial rinse to control infection and promote healing.
Deep cleaning teeth involves using various tools to remove plaque and tartar. A hand-held scaler is applied to the teeth to manually scrape off plaque and tartar. This process, called tooth scaling, can be uncomfortable but is effective. An ultrasonic scaler uses vibrations to break up tartar, making the cleaning process faster and less invasive. Lasers can also be used for deep cleaning, providing precise removal of bacteria and tartar while minimizing discomfort. Root planing can cause some discomfort as it smooths the roots, but it helps teeth reattach to the gums and shrink gum pockets. Deep cleaning may be necessary for every patient with periodontal disease to maintain optimal dental health. If you need deep teeth cleaning, your dentist will use the best method suited to your needs.
Advanced Treatments for Periodontal Disease
In severe cases, your periodontist may recommend osseous surgery (pocket reduction surgery) to enhance the effectiveness of periodontal scaling and root planing. This surgery reduces the infected gum pockets around your teeth. Additionally, soft-tissue grafting and bone grafting may be recommended to replace lost bone and gum tissue. These procedures are essential for patients considering dental implants.
Scaling and root planing may require multiple visits to reduce discomfort and allow for proper healing between appointments. The deep cleaning process is tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring comprehensive dental care.
How Deep Cleaning Differs from Regular Dental Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are routine cleanings that focus on preventing dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. The goal of regular cleaning is to maintain dental hygiene and prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. Regular cleanings are typically done twice a year by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Deep teeth cleanings, on the other hand, are used to treat periodontitis. This deeper cleaning process involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth. Deep cleanings are more intensive and may involve multiple visits. The goal of a deep teeth cleaning procedure is to stop the progression of gum disease and promote healing.
What to Expect After The Procedure?
After deep teeth cleaning, it is normal to experience some discomfort and sensitivity for a few days. Your periodontist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain after teeth cleaning. Some patients experience loose teeth after deep cleaning due to bone loss around teeth from periodontal disease. Follow your dentist’s post-procedure care instructions to ensure proper healing.
Post-Procedure Care
- Gentle brushing and flossing: Brush and floss your teeth gently to avoid irritating your gums.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and promote healing.
- Follow-up appointment: Your periodontist will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary.
- Monitor for symptoms: Watch for signs such as loose teeth, bleeding gums, or any discomfort. If you experience these symptoms, see a dentist promptly.
By understanding the deep cleaning procedure and following post-procedure care, you can effectively manage your dental health and keep your gums and teeth in optimal condition. If your dentist recommends deep teeth cleaning, it is an important step toward reversing periodontal disease and maintaining comprehensive dental care.
Disadvantages of Deep Cleaning Teeth
While deep cleaning is an effective treatment for periodontitis, there are some potential disadvantages to consider. Here’s what you need to know about deep cleaning:
- Discomfort and pain: The procedure can be uncomfortable since it involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth.
- Temporary tooth sensitivity: Teeth may become temporarily sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks after the procedure. This sensitivity usually decreases over time as the gums heal.
- Cost and multiple visits: Deep teeth cleaning costs can be higher than regular cleaning due to its complexity. Scaling and planing may require multiple visits to the dentist, which can be inconvenient.
- Potential for gum recession: Teeth may appear longer after deep cleaning due to gum recession as the gums heal and shrink back. This is a normal part of the healing process but may concern some patients.
- Risk of infection: There is a slight risk of infection following a deep dental cleaning procedure. Proper aftercare, including good oral hygiene and following your dentist’s instructions, can help minimize this risk.
Despite these potential drawbacks, deep cleaning is used to treat gum disease effectively. The goal of a regular cleaning procedure is to maintain oral health, but when periodontitis develops, a deep cleaning may become necessary. The procedure helps to remove plaque and tartar, treat gum disease, and maintain the health of teeth that sit within the gums. If you have concerns about deep cleaning, consult with your dentist, who can provide detailed information and help you make an informed decision.
Is Dental Deep Cleaning at the Dentist Necessary?
Yes, deep teeth cleaning is often necessary to remove tartar and plaque deposits that have built up below the gum line. This procedure can significantly reduce inflammation in the gums and prevent further damage. Deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas that regular cleanings may miss.
Periodontal disease can lead to serious issues, including tooth loss. Moreover, periodontitis has been linked to other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Therefore, regular dental exams and deep dental cleanings are essential to prevent periodontal disease from progressing. If your dentist says you need a deep cleaning, it is crucial to follow their recommendation.
Care Tips for Optimal Oral Health
To maintain optimal oral health and minimize the need for deep cleaning teeth procedures, follow these care tips:
- Brush your teeth twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time, making sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and below the gum line, areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash: Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth and promote gum health.
- Eat a balanced diet: Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, and consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals that support dental health.
- Visit the dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental cleanings and check-ups to catch and treat any issues early. Your dentist or hygienist will use tools like a hand-held dental scaler to remove plaque and tartar.
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and chewing tobacco can increase your risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent bacterial growth.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush is gentle on your gums and can effectively clean your teeth without causing irritation.
Regular dental care, including both routine cleanings and deeper cleanings when necessary, is key to maintaining a healthy set of teeth and gums. If you have any concerns about your oral health or the need for a deep cleaning, ask your dentist. They can provide personalized advice and treatments to keep your smile healthy and bright.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning of teeth, also known as scaling and root planing, is essential for treating periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. This dental procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup both above and below the gum line, reducing inflammation and halting the progression of gum disease.
The procedure involves scaling, where the dentist removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, and planing, which smooths the roots of teeth to prevent bacteria buildup. Though dental deep cleaning may cause some discomfort, it is necessary for maintaining oral health.
After deep cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Patients should brush their teeth twice daily, floss daily, and schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent gum disease from returning. Regular visits to the dentist will ensure that gum disease is promptly addressed. By following these practices, you can help ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
