What Happens During Deep Teeth Cleaning
A deep cleaning is a non-surgical dental procedure, usually completed by your dental hygienist, though your dentist may provide this service as well. It is a common first step in the treatment of periodontal disease. By reaching below the gumline, bacteria and plaque build-up are removed and the healing process can begin. This is a great way to start your journey to a healthy, happy smile!
When is a deep cleaning necessary?
Sometimes a build-up of plaque and bacteria in the pockets between your gums and teeth can lead to gum recession and eventually tooth loss. Removing the plaque from those pockets allows the gum tissue to heal closer to the tooth, protecting the roots and bone structure.
Your hygienist will measure the depth of your gum pockets during a routine cleaning. The ideal depth for these pockets is between 1 and 2 millimeters. Any pockets with a depth of 3 to 4 millimeters or more would benefit from scaling and root planing. It is important to have this treatment done to ensure the health of your teeth for years to come. Periodontal disease does not go away on its own so completing this advised treatment is very important, as is continuing routine hygiene appointments on a more frequent basis.
How is a deep cleaning performed?
A local anesthetic is administered in the area being treated to help minimize any discomfort you may feel. Scaling is often done over the course of multiple visits, typically half of the mouth is treated at a time and a follow up appointment about six weeks later for a maintenance appointment, at which time they will remeasure your healed gum pockets. Scaling does not necessarily have to be done throughout your entire mouth, you may only need one quadrant or just a few teeth scaled. Your dentist will discuss this with you before you schedule your appointment.
Once you are sufficiently numb, your hygienist will use metal manual scalers and an ultrasonic instrument to scrape and clean below the gumline where plaque and bacteria collect. If needed, a particularly deep pocket may have an antibiotic chip, arestin, placed to help clear the infection. A deep cleaning helps reduce the size of the space between your teeth and the gum tissue, helping your gums to reattach to the teeth.
What should I expect after a deep cleaning?
For a few days after your treatment, it is normal to experience a little swelling and light bleeding in the treated area along with soreness and sensitivity, which will subside after a few days. If your dentist prescribes an antibiotic mouthwash, make sure to use it as directed. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth may also be used to help reduce any sensitivity discomfort. It is also beneficial for your comfort to avoid crunchy foods for a few days while you heal.
After you have completed treatment, it is vital that you improve your home care and maintain regular visits to your dental office for professional cleanings every three to four months. This increased cleaning frequency is a common practice to help patients at risk for periodontal disease maintain a healthy mouth. Failing to follow instructions could quickly bring you back to a compromised state and all of your hard work and money spent on treatment will have been for nothing.