Deep dental cleaning is a way to treat severe cases of gum disease. However, it is not always necessary for all cases of gum disease. By understanding when and why a dentist recommends a deep dental cleaning, you can feel more comfortable throughout the consultation and treatment process.
Every dentist utilizes deep dental cleaning differently and may have their own process for performing their procedure. However, there are commonalities to become familiar with. The following is a complete review of deep dental cleaning to treat gingivitis and periodontitis.
A deep dental cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a relatively common in-office dental procedure that involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. Regular dental cleaning does not clean below the gum line, but rather only the surface of teeth and along the gum line. A deep dental cleaning is a method of treating a severe type of gum disease known as periodontitis. The procedure can be performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist.
A numbing agent is typically applied before a deep dental cleaning. This is to ensure that the procedure does not cause excessive discomfort. The dental professional then scrapes away the plaque and tartar on the surface of teeth and below the gum line. This should not cause much discomfort, although the patient may feel vibrations on their teeth. The processing of removing the plaque and tartar beneath the gum line is known as “scaling.” The last step is “root planing,” which involves smoothing the tooth roots to allow the gums to reattach.
Dentists recommend a deep dental cleaning for progressive and more severe cases of gum disease. There are two main types of gum disease, which are gingivitis and periodontitis. Although both are concerning, generally, only periodontitis requires a deep dental cleaning. Specifically, the dentist looks for the depth of gum pockets and bone loss in the jaw. If the gum pockets are 4 millimeters or greater, then a deep dental cleaning is likely necessary.
A deep dental cleaning can address periodontitis, but it is important to practice good oral hygiene to prevent the need for additional deep cleanings in the future. Most notably, be sure to brush, floss and use mouthwash as directed, along with visiting the dentist for a check-ups and regular dental cleanings once every four to six months. Limiting the intake of foods and drinks that are high in sugar and other carbohydrates is also encouraged.
Deep dental cleaning is often necessary to treat periodontitis and prevent larger issues such as severe bone loss and tooth loss. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, then contact our team by phone or email today to schedule a convenient time for a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.cosmeticdentistoffice.com or call Rachel Cole DDS PC at (503) 248-1114 for an appointment in our Portland office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Portland, OR.
A professional dental cleaning is non-invasive, and the entire process only takes a short amount of time on each visit. While the process for the visit may vary slightly for each patient, there are common steps involved with check-ups and professional dental cleaning visits that can be expected. The process for a dental cleaning typically involves…
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
A regular dental cleaning is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. While many people understand the importance of these appointments, the specifics of what happens during dental cleanings may remain a bit mysterious.In this review, we discuss the procedure of a typical dental cleaning, providing insight into the process and highlighting its significance in preventive…
Regular dental cleaning maintains or improves your oral health. For example, dentists include routine deep cleaning in long-term treatment plans for patients who live with gum disease. Dental cleaning is also important for smokers who have otherwise healthy teeth. This piece goes over the routine for dental cleaning.Dental practices prefer to offer first-line treatment rather…
A broken tooth can happen at any time — during sports, while eating, or from an unexpected fall. Regardless of the cause, an emergency dentist can help. Through prompt treatment, these dental providers offer an effective way to relieve pain and protect oral health. An emergency dentist can also help prevent complications like infection, nerve…
Traditional braces are one of the most effective orthodontic solutions for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. Many individuals are surprised to learn that receiving traditional braces from a general dentist can be a convenient and effective way to improve their smile. General dentists with additional training in orthodontics can provide comprehensive care, guiding patients…