Why a Deep Dental Cleaning?

Regular dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a vital preventive dental care procedure that helps maintain good oral health. During a regular cleaning, a dental hygienist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gum line, reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems. Regular dental cleaning is typically recommended every six months for individuals with good oral health.

Poor brushing and flossing habits can lead to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Active periodontal disease is characterized by bleeding gums while brushing or flossing, receding gums, and loose teeth. In such cases, a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is necessary to remove the harmful plaque and bacteria that have accumulated in the teeth and gums.

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia to eliminate pain. During the procedure, a dental hygienist cleans the teeth surface, removes tartar buildup, and scrapes away the infected gum tissue from the roots of the teeth. The smooth and clean surface of the roots allows the gums to reattach to the teeth, reducing inflammation and preventing further damage to the gums and teeth.

After scaling and root planing, patients are placed on a periodontal maintenance schedule, which involves regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups. The frequency of maintenance appointments varies depending on individual needs but usually occurs every three to six months. Regular periodontal maintenance helps prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease and maintains good bone and oral health.

In summary, regular dental cleaning is a routine measure to maintain oral health, while deep cleaning is an advanced procedure used to treat gum disease. Overall, scaling and root planing is an essential preventive measure that can help maintain good oral health, prevent more serious dental problems down the line, and improve overall health outcomes.

References:

1. American Dental Association. (2021). Scaling and Root Planing. Retrieved from https://www.ada.org/member-center/oral-health-topics/scaling-and-root-planing
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Gum Disease. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/gum-disease.html
3. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-cleaning/about/pac-20393473
4. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2018). Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease/more-info