Good dental hygiene is essential for overall health. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine professional cleanings effectively combat tooth decay and gum disease. But sometimes, it’s not enough to prevent periodontitis and tooth loss due to plaque and tartar accumulating below the gum line.
If you show signs of periodontitis, your dentist may prescribe a deep cleaning to protect your smile.
What is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.
Plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line can cause gum disease. In the early stages, called gingivitis, you may only notice red, swollen gums and bad breath, but as the disease progresses, your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, deepening your periodontal pockets.
When food, bacteria, and debris become trapped inside the periodontal pockets, it can lead to a severe infection called periodontitis. If your dentist diagnoses you with periodontitis, they may prescribe scaling and root planing treatment.
What to Expect When Getting a Deep Teeth Cleaning
A deep teeth cleaning is a thorough cleaning that requires a minimum of two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist uses a scaler to remove the plaque and tartar buildup above the gum line. They will then use an ultrasonic instrument to clean the root surface below the gum line to prevent future bacterial growth.
The procedure may cause some discomfort, but your dentist can use local anesthesia to numb the area and minimize pain. Depending on the work required, your dentist may divide your mouth into quadrants and deep clean different sections in separate appointments.
Once your scaling and root planing are complete, your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to ensure your teeth and gums heal correctly.
Benefits of a Deep Teeth Cleaning
Deep teeth cleaning is the least invasive way to eliminate plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. Some of the benefits include:
- Removes Plaque and Tartar. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If left untreated, these conditions can cause serious health problems, from dental abscesses to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Deep teeth cleaning is an effective way to remove plaque and tartar buildup and prevent these issues.
- Prevents Gum Disease. A deep teeth cleaning can help prevent gum disease by removing the bacteria that cause it. Unfortunately, if you already have gum disease, a deep teeth cleaning may not be enough to treat it. You may need additional treatment to stop the progression of the disease, such as antibiotics or gum flap surgery, which opens up the gum tissue for better access to the tooth root for cleaning.
- Improves Your Eating Experience. When you have plaque and tartar buildup, it can affect your eating experience. You may have difficulty chewing and may experience tooth sensitivity. Deep teeth cleaning can improve your eating experience by removing the buildup and restoring your teeth to their natural state.
Do I Really Need a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
If you are unsure whether you need a deep cleaning, numerous signs indicate that the procedure may benefit your oral health. These include:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tooth pain
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your dentist to determine whether deep teeth cleaning is necessary.
Schedule a Deep Teeth Cleaning Today
Deep teeth cleaning is an essential dental procedure that helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious health issues. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral discomfort, schedule an appointment with TruBlu Dentistry today.
Our experienced team of dental professionals will provide you with the care you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Call us today at TruBlu Dentistry in Burbank (708) 424-5650 or Hegewisch (773) 646-4664.