Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a crucial procedure for those dealing with gum disease. While regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, a deep cleaning is required when plaque and tartar have built up beneath the gum line, leading to the early stages of gum disease. In this blog, well explore how a deep cleaning works, why its necessary, and how it can help restore the health of your gums.
What Is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning is a non-surgical procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This procedure is recommended for patients with gum disease, especially when the gums have become inflamed and pockets have formed between the teeth and gums.
During a standard cleaning, the dentist or hygienist only removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. However, a deep cleaning goes further, reaching the roots of the teeth and the areas below the gumline, where plaque and bacteria can accumulate. Deep cleaning helps to stop the progression of gum disease, prevent further damage, and promote gum healing.
Why Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?
You Have Gum Disease
The most common reason for needing a deep cleaning is the presence of gum disease, which can range from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontitis. If you have signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, a deep cleaning may be necessary to remove the plaque and tartar that have built up below the gum line.
You Have Deep Gum Pockets
As gum disease progresses, it causes the gums to recede, creating pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets can harbor plaque, bacteria, and tartar, which cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing. A deep cleaning helps to clean these pockets, reducing the risk of further gum damage and infection.
Your Gums Are Sensitive or Bleeding
Bleeding or tender gums when brushing or flossing are common signs of gum disease. If you experience these symptoms, a deep cleaning may be required to remove the bacteria and tartar that are causing irritation and inflammation. Addressing these issues early with a deep cleaning can help prevent more serious dental problems.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?
Scaling
The first step of the deep cleaning process is scaling, which involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, both above and below the gum line. Your dentist or hygienist will use specialized instruments to scrape away the buildup and smooth the surface of the tooth roots. This helps prevent further plaque accumulation and encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Root Planing
After scaling, the next step is root planing, which smooths out the roots of the teeth. This step is important because rough tooth roots can encourage bacteria to accumulate. By smoothing the roots, it makes it more difficult for plaque and bacteria to adhere, helping the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
Local Anesthesia
Deep cleaning can be uncomfortable, especially if your gums are inflamed or if the cleaning process reaches deeper into the gum pockets. To minimize discomfort, your dentist or hygienist may use local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. This ensures that the procedure is as comfortable as possible, and most patients find that the procedure is relatively painless.
Post-Treatment Care
After the deep cleaning procedure, you may experience some soreness or discomfort in the treated areas. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to manage any discomfort. Its also important to follow any additional post-treatment instructions provided by your dentist, such as using a special mouthwash or avoiding certain foods.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning for Your Gums
Stops the Progression of Gum Disease
The primary benefit of a deep cleaning is that it stops the progression of gum disease by removing the bacteria and plaque that contribute to gum inflammation. By preventing the disease from advancing, you reduce the risk of further complications, such as tooth loss, bone damage, and the need for more invasive treatments.
Reduces Gum Inflammation and Bleeding
Deep cleaning can help reduce inflammation in the gums, which in turn reduces bleeding and tenderness. As the gums heal, they will begin to reattach to the teeth, and the pockets between the teeth and gums will become smaller, reducing the risk of infection.
Prevents Tooth Loss
When gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss due to the weakening of the tooths supporting structures. A deep cleaning removes the harmful bacteria and plaque that contribute to this damage, helping to preserve your teeth and prevent tooth loss.
Improves Bad Breath
Gum disease is often associated with bad breath (halitosis), as the bacteria in the mouth can produce foul-smelling gases. A deep cleaning eliminates the plaque and tartar that contribute to bad breath, leading to fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
Promotes Long-Term Gum Health
By thoroughly cleaning the teeth and gums, a deep cleaning helps to promote long-term gum health. Once the plaque and tartar are removed, the gums can heal and strengthen, reducing the risk of future gum disease and keeping your smile healthy for years to come.
Post-Deep Cleaning Care and Recovery
Sore Gums
After the procedure, its normal to experience some soreness in the treated areas. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days, but you can manage it by taking over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your dentist.
Dietary Restrictions
During the first 24 hours after the deep cleaning, you may be advised to avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods. Stick to soft foods that wont irritate your gums and help speed up recovery.
Follow-Up Appointments
Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the healing progress and ensure that your gums are responding well to the deep cleaning. In some cases, additional treatments may be necessary, such as a second round of scaling and root planing if the pockets are still too deep.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning is an essential procedure for anyone with gum disease, particularly those with pockets of infection beneath the gum line. By removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria, deep cleaning can save your gums, prevent tooth loss, and restore your oral health. If youre experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding or swollen gums, dont waitschedule a deep cleaning to protect your smile and preserve your gum health.