Deep Teeth Cleaning 101: Everything You Need to Know

Dental hygiene is important as it helps to prevent several oral infections. That is why we recommend daily brushing, flossing, using a mouth rinse, and getting regular cleaning every six months. However, at times our dentist may recommend deep teeth cleaning as a preventive dental procedure.

What is Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning is similar to the regular one, but it involves cleaning beneath the gums to get rid of tartar. The deep teeth cleaning procedure involves two steps: gum scaling and root planing.

Teeth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, needs two or more dental visits, with each session lasting for one to two hours.

When Does the Dentist Recommend Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning is not a routine dental cleaning near you, but it is done as a preventive measure. The primary purpose of the procedure is to prevent the development of gum disease.

A deep clean removes the build-up of calculus or plaque from the teeth and gum line. Plaque is a sticky, yellow, film that forms on the teeth. It develops when food mixes with the bacteria in the mouth. You can remove the plaque by brushing every day, especially after food.

At times brushing and flossing may fall short, leaving plaques in between your teeth. These leftover plaques will harden into tartar. Remember, plaque also houses bacteria, and not removing it will increase the risk of gum inflammation.

The more tartar you have, the higher the risk of gum infection or gingivitis. Advanced gum disease can cause gum recession and lead to bone loss. Gum disease can cause:

• Bleeding, red, and tender gums
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath
• Pus accumulation

The dentist will recommend deep teeth cleaning if you have two or more of these symptoms.

How is Process Done?

Scaling and root planing are done on separate dental visits.

• Gum scaling

Our hygienist will carry out this procedure. Local anesthesia will be used to ease the discomfort. Using ultrasound scalers and a vibrating tip, the hygienist will remove the accumulated calculus from below the gum line. Water is used to rinse the dirt away, and the procedure is repeated until the desired results are attained. This process will last for about an hour.

• Root planing

This is done on the second dental session, and the periodontist or dentist will carry out the procedure. Root planing is done to reattach the receded gums to the teeth. This will reduce the gums pockets and prevent the progression of gum infection.

The dentist will first smoother the teeth to make the reattachment process easy. Then, she will lift the gums and place them on the root.

Root planing is done to treat the early stages of gingivitis.

What are the Pros and Cons of Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Pros

Deep teeth cleaning will help:

• Stop the progression of the gum disease
• Protect the roots of the teeth
• Fight bad breath
• Prevent teeth loss
• Promote healthy gums and teeth
• Reduce the gum pockets

Cons

• Teeth cleaning can cause tooth sensitivity and slight pain. The dentist may recommend a tooth-sensitive toothpaste to ease the discomfort.
• Though it’s rare, there is a risk of nerve damage. That is why it advisable to get the treatment from a licensed hygienist.
• There is a risk of infection after the teeth cleaning procedure.
• It can also cause gum recession.

After Care Instruction

After the teeth cleaning, you might experience sensitivity for a week. You may also have swollen and tender gums. It is, therefore important to avoid taking foods that may cause sensitivity. Also, take the prescribed medication to reduce pain and prevent infection.

Good dental care is also needed to keep the infection from recurring. Do not forget to use a soft brush and mild toothpaste.
Our Southwest Houston dentist may schedule a follow-up session to examine the gums and measure the depth of the pockets (if any).

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Mi Casa Dental clinic for more information on the deep teeth cleaning cost, how it’s done, and how to care for your teeth after the procedure.