Introduction: Oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and regular dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining a healthy smile. While routine cleanings are typically done to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth, there is another level of cleaning known as deep teeth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about deep teeth cleaning.
Why is Deep Teeth Cleaning Important? Deep teeth cleaning is a specialized dental procedure that goes beyond regular cleanings and is typically recommended for patients with gum disease or other oral health issues. Here are some key reasons why deep teeth cleaning is essential for optimal dental health:
- Treatment of Gum Disease: Deep teeth cleaning is a highly effective treatment for gum disease, which is a common condition caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth. Gum disease can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated, including gum recession, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues.
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Deep teeth cleaning involves the removal of plaque and tartar not only from the surfaces of teeth but also from below the gumline, where regular cleanings cannot reach. This helps eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease and prevents further damage to the gums and teeth.
- Prevention of Tooth Loss: Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Deep teeth cleaning helps prevent tooth loss by addressing the underlying cause of gum disease and promoting healthy gum tissue.
- Improvement of Oral Health: Deep teeth cleaning can significantly improve oral health by reducing inflammation, improving gum health, and preventing further damage to the teeth and gums. This can result in fresher breath, healthier gums, and a brighter smile.
The Deep Teeth Cleaning Process: Deep teeth cleaning typically involves two main procedures: scaling and root planing. Here’s a breakdown of each step:
- Scaling: Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth and below the gumline using specialized dental instruments. The dentist or dental hygienist will carefully remove the buildup of plaque and tartar, paying special attention to the areas around the gumline and between teeth.
- Root Planing: Root planing is the process of smoothing the rough surfaces of tooth roots to remove bacteria and promote healing of the gum tissue. This helps prevent further buildup of plaque and tartar and encourages healthy gum attachment to the teeth.
Both scaling and root planing are typically performed using local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience for the patient. The number of appointments needed for deep teeth cleaning may vary depending on the severity of gum disease and the overall oral health of the patient.
After the deep teeth cleaning procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist may recommend additional measures for ongoing gum disease management, such as regular professional cleanings, improved oral hygiene practices, and possible use of antimicrobial rinses or medications.
