How Dentists Deep Clean Teeth

After you visit the dentist for a cleaning, you leave with your teeth feeling incredibly clean. But what if we told you that you did not receive a deep cleaning? There is a difference between a typical dental cleaning and deep cleaning.

Most people only usually receive a typical cleaning while visiting the dentist. This is because deep cleaning is a special dental procedure that goes beyond cleaning your teeth.

In this blog, we will explain the difference between typical cleaning and deep teeth cleaning procedures. We will also touch on their purposes. This information will help you know what to expect on your next visit to the dentist.

Dental Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleanings are the procedures that you undergo every time you visit the dentist for a check-up. However, the dental hygienist usually does much of the cleaning.

The hygienist uses a variety of tools like a polisher, scraper, pick, and more to clean your teeth. They focus on polishing your teeth at and above the gum line. In other words, they do not clean the parts of your teeth that are covered by your gums.

While cleaning, they disturb food particles and colonies of bacteria in your mouth. Except, rather than removing them from your mouth, they release them into your bloodstream and the rest of your body.

Deep Cleaning

A deep teeth cleaning procedure goes the extra mile to remove bacteria colonies from your mouth with gum scaling and root planing.Gum scaling is a process that removes all the plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Root planing, on the other hand, smooths the roots of your teeth to help the gums reattach to the tooth.

Deep cleaning is the primary treatment for gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Therefore, most patients will never need to have deep teeth cleaning.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection that damages gum tissue. Bacteria create plaque build-up on the teeth which can cause the gums to become inflamed. Gums can start to pull away from the teeth, causing bone loss. If left untreated, teeth may become loose.

Some signs and symptoms are:

• Bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Inflamed gums
• Bad breath
• Pus or infection in the gums

The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. But, sometimes, many people do not realize that their gum health is poor until they are diagnosed with chronic periodontitis. At this point, the dentist will need to treat gum disease with a deep teeth cleaning.

The Deep Teeth Cleaning Process

The doctor will schedule two separate visits: one for deep cleaning teeth and one for the follow-up.

Initial Examination

First, the treatment begins with an examination. Dental professionals will review and/or inquire about your medical history. Afterwards, they will take x-rays to find the area that needs the most treatment.

Before the procedure begins, the dentist will measure the depths of the gum sockets using a special tool. Measuring the gums allows them to determine the extent of the procedure. It also helps determine if the person has gingivitis or periodontitis.

Next, the dentist will move on to scaling and root planing.

Dental deep cleaning is a low-risk procedure that is usually not painful. But, people with sensitive teeth or deep gum sockets may find the process uncomfortable. Therefore, a dentist will provide a local anesthetic if needed.

Gum or Teeth Scaling

Periodontal scaling is needed when bacteria like plaque and tartar have built up on your teeth, causing the gums to pull away and form deep pockets between them and your teeth. Bacteria can become trapped in these pockets, worsening your oral health. Thankfully, scaling can help remove the bacteria and prevent infections.

First, the doctor will use an ultrasonic tool to remove plaque and tartar. The ultrasonic scaler uses high vibrational energy to disrupt the integrity of the bacteria, making it easier to remove. After, they will start deep cleaning teeth with a scaling instrument.

The scaling tool looks like a stainless steel hook and is used for removing tartar and plaque. The dentist will use the tool to scrape away the build-up on your teeth. It is almost like they are brushing your teeth, except millimeters deep below the gum line.

Minor bleeding may occur while deep cleaning teeth. When this happens, a mouth rinse will be given to patients.

Root Planing

After your deep dental cleaning, the dentist will want to encourage your gums to reattach to the tooth of the root. Reattachment will help prevent bacteria from building up in gum pockets (because there will be no pockets!) and eliminate the need for further deep cleanings.

Gum reattachment is stimulated by root planing, a procedure that smooths the tooth root. Gum therapy is a wonderful way to encourage healthy gums and

Healing and Follow-Up

After dental deep cleaning, you may feel some discomfort and sensitivity. Gums can also swell, feel tender, or bleed. Despite this, the healing process is relatively mild. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic pills to ensure that no infections develop.

After several weeks, you will visit the dental office for a check-up. The staff will evaluate your teeth and provide any dental tips.

Take Care of Your Teeth

After your deep cleaning, you will need to maintain good dental hygiene. Good oral hygiene will prevent the need for further deep teeth cleanings and the development of gum diseases. Start brushing your teeth twice a day, focusing on the area at the base of the teeth.