Maintaining your oral health is more than just brushing and flossing. While regular dental cleanings help keep your teeth in good shape, there are times when a more thorough cleaning is necessary. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is an essential procedure that targets the bacteria and plaque buildup below the gumline, ensuring long-term gum and tooth health.
What is a Deep Cleaning Procedure for Teeth?
A standard dental cleaning focuses on the visible surfaces of your teeth and above the gumline. However, if bacteria and plaque build-up below the gumline, a routine cleaning won’t be enough. This is where a deep cleaning comes in. A deep cleaning is a procedure designed to eliminate the harmful substances lurking beneath the gumline, where they can cause damage to your teeth and gums.
Deep cleaning involves two key steps: scaling and root planing. During scaling, your dentist or hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots. Root planing smooths the surfaces of your tooth roots, helping prevent bacteria from accumulating again in the future.
Why Would You Need a Deep Cleaning?
Not everyone requires a deep cleaning. However, certain conditions make it necessary to stop gum disease in its tracks. If you notice any of the following signs, you may need a deep cleaning:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact our office for an evaluation. Ignoring gum disease can lead to more serious issues, such as tooth loss or bone damage.
How is a Deep Cleaning Different from Regular Cleanings?
While regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar above the gumline, a deep cleaning goes further, targeting bacteria that reside below the gumline and even on the roots of the teeth. The goal of a regular cleaning is to maintain your oral health, while a deep cleaning is aimed at reversing or preventing the progress of gum disease.
What Does a Deep Cleaning Involve?
Your dentist or hygienist will first perform scaling, using specialized tools to remove tartar and plaque from both the visible parts of your teeth and beneath the gumline. Next, they will smooth the tooth roots through root planing, making it harder for bacteria to cling to the roots.
In most cases, a deep cleaning will require two appointments: one for the upper half of your mouth and another for the lower half. This ensures that the cleaning is thorough and your comfort is prioritized.
Does a Deep Cleaning Hurt?
While a deep cleaning can cause some discomfort, it is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is often used to numb the area, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some tenderness, swelling, or bleeding in your gums, but this is typically temporary. Sensitivity to hot and cold may also occur for a few days after the procedure.
What Happens After a Deep Cleaning?
After your deep cleaning, your gums may feel tender, and you may notice some bleeding when brushing your teeth. To help with recovery, avoid eating overly hot or cold foods, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent irritation. Your dentist may recommend a follow-up appointment in 4-6 weeks to check the progress of your gum healing and ensure the infection has cleared up.
Warning Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Some common signs that you may require a deep cleaning include:
- Gums that are red, swollen, or bleed easily
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums that have receded from your teeth, causing pockets
- Loose teeth or teeth that shift position
- Painful chewing or discomfort while eating
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, don’t wait! Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see if a deep cleaning is necessary.
Schedule Your Deep Cleaning in Willowbrook Today
If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease or haven’t had a cleaning in a while, give us a call today at Dentists of Hinsdale Lake. Our expert team is here to provide you with the care you need to restore your oral health. Schedule your appointment now at (630) 323-5333. Don’t wait—take the first step toward healthier gums and teeth today!