What to Know When Undergoing a Deep Cleaning Procedure

Upkeeping your oral health goes way beyond simple brushing. Sometimes, you need a little extra help. That’s where deep cleaning comes in. A professional deep cleaning at the dentist isn’t just for a bright smile. It’s a crucial step to keep your gums and teeth healthy, especially if regular cleanings haven’t been enough. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what a deep cleaning is, why it’s needed, and what you can expect during the process.

What Is a Deep Cleaning at the Dentist?

A deep cleaning goes beyond the surface of your teeth. While regular cleanings focus on the visible parts of your teeth, a deep cleaning digs deeper, addressing the areas below your gum line. This is the place where plaque and tartar can accumulate or build up and cause problems if left untreated.

In simple terms, deep cleaning involves scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from your teeth’s surface and below the gums. Root planing smooths or polishes the roots of your teeth, helping your gums reattach and heal. It’s more thorough than regular cleaning because it targets or focuses on areas that are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing.

If the dentist near you has recommended deep cleaning, it’s because they’ve noticed signs of gum disease or a buildup of plaque that needs more attention than a routine cleaning can provide.

The Steps Involved in Deep Teeth Cleaning

When you come in for deep cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will follow a step-by-step process to ensure your teeth and gums get the care they need. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Examination: Before the cleaning begins, your dentist in Phoenix will examine your mouth to identify areas of concern. This might include taking X-rays to see if any issues below the gum line need attention.
2. Scaling: The first part of the deep cleaning process is scaling. Using special tools, your dentist or hygienist will eliminate tartar and plaque from your teeth, especially from below the gum line. This is where most of the harmful bacteria hide.
3. Root Planing: After scaling, the next procedure or step is root planing. This involves smoothing out the surfaces of your tooth roots. Smoother roots help prevent bacteria from reattaching and permit your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth.
4. Antibiotic Therapy (if needed): In some cases, your dentist might apply an antibiotic gel or prescribe a mouth rinse to help kill any remaining bacteria and promote healing.
5. Follow-Up Care: After your deep cleaning, your dentist will book a follow-up appointment to track your progress. This visit is important to ensure that your gums are healing properly and that no further treatment is needed.

The deep cleaning process is usually done over two visits, especially if you need cleaning on both sides of your mouth. This allows for thorough cleaning and gives your mouth time to heal between sessions.

When Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?

You might wonder, Do I really need a deep cleaning? The answer depends on the health of your gums and teeth. Deep cleaning becomes necessary when regular cleanings can’t keep up with the plaque and tartar building up under your gums.

Here are some signs that you might need a deep cleaning:

• Gum Disease: A deep cleaning can help stop gum disease from worsening if you have early symptoms like bleeding and swollen or red gums.
• Receding Gums: There are pockets where bacteria can gather when your gums begin to recede from your teeth. Deep cleaning helps remove these bacteria and prevents further damage.
• Bad Breath: Consistent bad breath can indicate that bacteria are hiding below your gum line. Deep cleaning can address this by removing the source of the odor.
• Loose Teeth: If your teeth rock back and forth when you touch them, it could indicate that gum disease has damaged the supporting structures. Deep cleaning can help by reducing the bacteria causing the damage.

Your dentist will recommend deep cleaning if they see these signs during your regular check-up. It’s important to follow through with this recommendation to prevent further complications, like tooth loss or severe gum disease.

The Benefits of a Deep Cleaning

Getting a deep cleaning isn’t just about cleaning your teeth—it’s about protecting your overall health. Here are some benefits you can expect:

• Healthier Gums: By removing the plaque and tartar that cause gum disease, deep cleaning helps your gums heal and reattach to your teeth. This reduces swelling, redness, and bleeding.
• Prevention of Tooth Loss: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Deep cleaning can stop the increase or progression of gum disease, helping you keep your natural teeth longer.
• Better Breath: Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth. Deep cleaning eliminates these bacteria, leading to fresher breath.
• Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Research has demonstrated a connection between heart and gum disease. Deep cleaning to treat gum disease may also lower your risk of heart-related issues.
• Improved Overall Health: Your oral health is associated with overall health. By taking care of your gums and teeth, you’re also taking care of your body.

Maintaining Your Oral Health Post-Deep Cleaning

After a deep cleaning, it’s important to maintain your oral health to keep your gums and teeth in good shape. Here are some tips to help you maintain the results of your deep cleaning:

• Brush and Floss Daily: Keep up with your daily brushing and flossing routine. This helps prevent plaque from building up again.
• Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help kill any remaining bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups are key to maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can monitor your gums and teeth to ensure they stay healthy.
• Watch Your Diet: Eating a balanced diet that’s low in sugar can help prevent plaque buildup and protect your teeth and gums.

Adhering to these steps, you can keep your gums and teeth healthy after deep cleaning.

Conclusion

Maintaining oral health after a deep cleaning is essential for long-lasting results. By following a good oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits, you can protect your gums and teeth from future issues. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier smile, schedule your deep cleaning consultation today!

Are you ready to take the next step toward better oral health?

Schedule your deep cleaning with We Care Dental today. Our team is here to help you achieve a healthier smile. Don’t wait—book your appointment with our gum specialist near you in Phoenix to get started!