Deep cleaning is a specialized dental procedure that addresses oral health concerns beyond routine cleaning. Its primary purpose is to treat gum disease, an infection affecting the tissues supporting the teeth. This treatment removes harmful bacteria and deposits that accumulate beneath the gum line, fostering a healthier environment for the gums and teeth.
Understanding Deep Cleaning
A deep dental cleaning, often referred to as scaling and root planing, differs from a regular dental cleaning. Routine cleanings focus on removing plaque and tartar from above the gum line, while deep cleaning extends below this area to address gum disease. When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is not adequately removed, it hardens into tartar, or calculus, which irritates the gums. This irritation can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation and bleeding gums.
If gingivitis remains untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. These pockets become breeding grounds for bacteria, plaque, and tartar, extending below the gum line and onto the tooth roots. A deep cleaning becomes necessary to remove this buildup from these deeper pockets, as regular brushing and flossing cannot reach these areas effectively. This procedure aims to reduce gum inflammation, prevent further bone loss, and improve overall gum health.
Factors Influencing Duration
The duration of a deep teeth cleaning varies based on several factors. The severity of gum disease plays a significant role; more extensive disease with deeper pockets and greater bacterial accumulation requires more time for thorough cleaning. The amount of plaque and tartar buildup on the tooth surfaces and roots also impacts the procedure’s length; heavier deposits take more time to remove.
Another factor is the number of teeth requiring treatment. Deep cleanings are often performed in sections, or quadrants, of the mouth, such as the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right areas. Cleaning a full mouth takes longer than treating one or two affected quadrants. Patient comfort and cooperation during the procedure also influence its pace. Local anesthesia is common and helps manage any discomfort. Typically, a deep cleaning session can last one to two hours, and the entire procedure may be split across multiple appointments.
The Deep Cleaning Procedure
A deep cleaning appointment typically begins with an examination by the dentist or hygienist to assess the extent of gum disease and identify treatment areas. This often involves probing gum pockets to measure their depth and may include reviewing X-rays to check bone levels. For patient comfort, local anesthesia is usually administered to numb the gums and surrounding tissues, minimizing discomfort.
The procedure involves two main parts: scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line, extending deep into the gum pockets. Specialized dental instruments, such as manual hand scalers or ultrasonic devices that vibrate, are used. Root planing then smooths the tooth root surfaces. This step removes remaining bacteria and rough spots, promoting gum reattachment to the smooth surfaces. Due to its thoroughness, deep cleaning is often divided into multiple visits, typically treating one or two quadrants of the mouth per appointment for healing time.
After Your Deep Cleaning
Following a deep cleaning, patients may experience various sensations as their gums heal. Soreness, tenderness, or sensitivity in the gums and teeth is common for a few days, particularly to hot or cold temperatures. Mild bleeding of the gums is also normal. These sensations are generally temporary and indicate healing and adjustment to the cleaning.
To manage discomfort, dentists often recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Rinsing the mouth gently with warm salt water daily can help reduce swelling and promote healing. Patients should consume a soft diet for the first few days and avoid hard, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate treated areas. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing, prevents gum disease recurrence. Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to monitor healing and ensure long-term gum health.