When we talk about taking care of our teeth, the basics have already stuck in our minds since we were kids: brush twice a day and floss. However, taking care of your teeth goes beyond just brushing and flossing daily.
Sometimes, plaque and bacteria build up beneath the gumline. When this is left out for a long time, this leads to more serious oral health issues. And by the time your dentist catches this, regular dental cleaning may no longer be enough to get it treated. By this time, your dentist might recommend a deep teeth cleaning to restore and protect your gums and teeth.
Let’s explore more about what deep teeth cleaning is, why you might need it, the benefits of deep cleaning teeth, and what to expect during the teeth deep cleaning process.
What Is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
A deep teeth cleaning is also known as scaling and root planing. This type of teeth cleaning involves a more thorough cleaning procedure designed to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. Unlike a routine cleaning that focuses on the surfaces of the teeth, this procedure goes deeper to clean the roots and prevent or treat gum disease.
If these plaque, tartar, and bacteria are left untreated, it can lead to gum disease or periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and increase the risk of other health problems like heart disease and diabetes. In Australia, data shows that from 2017 to 2018, 30.1% of the adult population had moderate or severe gum disease.
That’s why deep teeth cleaning is essential for patients with gum disease to stop the progression of the infection, keep their natural teeth and promote healthier gums.
Signs You Might Need a Deep Teeth Cleaning
People who are unaware of the condition of their teeth may also not know that there is such a dental service as deep teeth cleaning. However, there are some telltale signs that indicate that you may need a deep teeth cleaning procedure immediately.
Look out for these signs:
1. Bleeding or Swollen Gums
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, or if they appear red and swollen, it could be an early sign of gum disease.
2. Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath that doesn’t go away, even after brushing and using mouthwash, may be caused by bacteria trapped below the gumline.
3. Gum Recession
If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s surface or root, it could mean that plaque and tartar have built up beneath the gums.
4. Loose Teeth
Advanced gum disease can weaken the structures supporting your teeth, making them feel loose or wobbly.
5. Deep Pockets Between Teeth and Gums
When you go to your dentist for a check-up, they will be able to measure the depth of the space between your gums and teeth. If these pockets are too deep, a teeth-deep cleaning process may be necessary to remove bacteria and prevent infection.
The Benefits of Deep Cleaning Teeth
In a 2015 study, it was mentioned that deep teeth cleaning is an effective and beneficial way to treat patients with gum disease that will help restore their oral health and prevent long-term problems.
Here are some key benefits:
1. Stops the Progression of Gum Disease
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications. A deep cleaning removes the harmful bacteria from the surfaces and crevices of the gums, which are the main culprits for gum infections.
2. Reduces Bad Breath
Since bacteria trapped under the gums contribute to persistent bad breath, a deep cleaning can help eliminate the problem.
3. Prevents Tooth Loss
Addressing gum disease early with deep cleanings helps keep your teeth securely in place and prevent them from becoming loose or falling out.
4. Protects Overall Health
Poor oral health has been linked to many chronic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. That’s why it’s also important that we take care of our oral health. Treating gum infections can help reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being.
5. Improves Gum Health
After the procedure, your gums will begin to heal and reattach to your teeth, reducing the depth of pockets and lowering the risk of further infection.
What to Expect During a Deep Teeth Cleaning Procedure
A deep cleaning teeth procedure usually takes place over one or two visits, depending on how severe your gum disease is. If you’re having your treatment done at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie, you can trust that our dentists will use special tools to remove harmful bacteria from pockets that have formed between your teeth and gums.
Here’s what to expect from us:
Step 1: Examination
Your dentist will first examine your gums and measure the depth of any pockets around your teeth.
Step 2: Scaling
Using specialised tools, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline. This process may involve an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibrations to break up hardened deposits.
Step 3: Root Planing
Once scaling is complete, root planing smooths out the surfaces of your tooth roots. This helps the gums reattach to the teeth and prevents bacteria from accumulating in the future.
Step 4: Aftercare and Healing
After the procedure, your gums may feel slightly tender, and you might experience mild bleeding, which is normal for deep teeth cleaning. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your gums, including using a soft-bristled toothbrush and maybe an antibacterial mouthwash.
Prioritise Your Gum Health
There can be multiple signs that you may need a deep teeth cleaning. However, if your dentist recommends it, it’s important to take it seriously because it is likely they see that your oral health is in danger. Most of the time it is because of gum disease, and addressing it early can prevent more serious complications and help maintain a healthy smile.
Keep your dental and overall health thriving with the help of our dentists at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie! We provide thorough deep cleaning treatments to make sure your oral health is protected. If you suspect that you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to undergo a teeth-deep cleaning process, don’t wait too long to have it.
Schedule an appointment with us today to make sure your mouth stays healthy.