Dental deep cleaning, also referred to as gum therapy, is a treatment that cleans between the gums and teeth down to the roots. The dentist or hygienist will use their tools to scrape away plaque and tartar on the surface of the enamel up under the gums—not just along the gum line like in a regular cleaning.
Why do I need Dental Deep Cleaning?
Gum disease is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but if they are not cleaned well, the bacteria in plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed. When this happens, your gums will pull away from your teeth and form spaces called pockets. Plaque then gets trapped in these pockets and cannot be removed with regular brushing. If untreated, gum disease could lead to bone and tooth loss. Dental deep cleanings are the best way to treat patients with chronic gum disease. The treatment also called scaling and root planing removes plaque and bacteria below the gums to prevent bone loss that can loosen teeth and complicate medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
What happens during a Dental Deep Cleaning?
Your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gum line, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. Your dentist will then begin root planing, smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
Will my gums be sore after a Dental Deep Cleaning?
After a deep cleaning, you may have pain for a day or two and teeth sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and bleed. To prevent infection, control pain or help you heal, your dentist may prescribe a pill or mouth rinse.
How often should I get a Dental Deep Cleaning?
It is recommended that children and adults visit the dentist twice a year for routine teeth cleaning when teeth and gums are healthy. For patients with periodontal disease, a gum disease that can damage the jaw bone if untreated, it is recommended to see the dentist every three months. Brushing and flossing regularly will help you fight against tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease. While these essential steps of good oral hygiene have numerous benefits, they alone cannot prevent all dental problems. Routine teeth cleanings give your dentist an opportunity to not only examine your oral health, but also give a deep cleaning teeth experience beyond what you can do at your bathroom sink.
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