What Is A Dental Deep Cleaning?
A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical periodontal therapy procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line to prevent gum disease from advancing. It is a more intensive cleaning than a regular dental cleaning, which focuses on cleaning above the gum line.
Why is a dental deep cleaning necessary?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and bones that support the teeth. When plaque and tartar accumulate below the gum line, they can irritate and inflame the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth and create pockets. These pockets can trap more bacteria, leading to further inflammation and destruction of the gum tissue and bone.
If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious consequences, including:
- Tooth loss
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
- Difficulty eating and speaking
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
A dental deep cleaning can help to prevent and treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, reducing inflammation, and allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
What does a dental deep cleaning involve?
A dental deep cleaning is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area. The procedure may be done in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
During the procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to:
- Scale: Remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
- Root plane: Smoothen the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to make it harder for bacteria to attach.
After the scaling and root planing, the dentist or hygienist will polish the teeth and may apply an antibiotic to the area to help prevent infection.
What to expect after a dental deep cleaning
After a dental deep cleaning, you may experience some soreness or tenderness in your gums. This is normal and should subside within a few days. You may also notice some bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. This should also subside within a few days.
Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth and gums after the procedure. This may include:
- Brushing and flossing twice a day
- Using a mouthwash
- Eating soft foods
- Avoiding smoking
How often should I have a dental deep cleaning?
The frequency of dental deep cleanings will depend on the severity of your gum disease and your response to treatment. Some people may only need a deep cleaning every few years, while others may need more frequent cleanings.
Conclusion
A dental deep cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral health and preventing gum disease. If you have any concerns about gum disease, talk to your dentist. They can assess your individual risk and recommend the best treatment options for you. Please find the dental office near you in these locations: Attleboro, Chelmsford, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Lynn, Manchester, Methuen, Roslindale, Taunton.
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Coffee Before Dental Cleaning
Coffee is a staple in most people’s morning routines. However you may be wondering if you can indulge in your favorite caffeine boost before having a dental cleaning performed. The specific answer isn’t too clear, but what is known is that coffee is generally an acidic beverage, meaning it can tear away enamel and stain teeth if consumed excessively, and can definitely reverse the benefits of a thorough dental cleaning,
What can I eat after teeth whitening?
After a teeth whitening procedure, your teeth can be sensitive during the first few hours to couple of days, so many dentists recommend avoiding certain foods for 2 to 3 days. After a professional teeth whitening, your teeth can become slightly porous, and the dentin layer can become temporarily exposed. Acidic and dark-colored foods are more easily absorbed into your teeth after whitening, which can cause discoloration. Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold and make sure the food items are at room temperature.
When would you need a dental crown?
Dental crowns are essentially caps of different materials that are placed over a tooth to help restore its shape and size, and to improve overall function, strength, and appearance of a tooth. It is often used on severely damaged teeth with the hopes of saving it from further damage or even falling out. Dentists will typically recommend crowns if your teeth have extensive damage or decay, but can also be utilized in other situations.
What Happens If Tartar Is Not Removed?
Tartar, which is hardened and difficult to remove plaque, can cause damage to your teeth and gums if not removed promptly. The accumulation of bacteria in tartar can slowly erode teeth, destroy healthy gum tissue, and can cause unpleasant odors and bad breath. When tartar damages the gum line, patients may experience bleeding, swelling, and irritation from even gentle brushing. And more severe cases of tartar build up can even lead to dental erosion and unstable teeth, increasing the risk of underlying bone damage and teeth falling out.