What Happens During Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a powerful treatment that addresses hidden pockets of plaque and tartar that build up beneath the gumline. While the process might seem daunting, deep teeth cleaning is a proactive measure to combat gum disease and avoid more serious dental issues later on. The combination of scaling and root planing not only clears away harmful deposits but also sets the stage for healthier gums and teeth in the long run.
Here’s a detailed look at what happens during deep teeth cleaning. In essence, deep teeth cleaning is an multi-step procedure designed to restore your oral health. By targeting the unseen layers of plaque and tartar, deep teeth cleaning helps prevent the progression of gum disease and supports a healthy, confident smile.
Assessment and Preparation
Your visit begins with a careful assessment of your oral health. Your dental professional will examine your gums and take X-rays if necessary to determine the severity of gum disease and plaque accumulation. This helps pinpoint the precise areas that require attention. The dentist will explain the condition of your gums and discuss how deep cleaning can help halt further damage.
Before the cleaning starts, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the gum tissues around the affected areas in order to minimize discomfort associated with the operation. Although the injection of anesthetic itself might cause a brief sting, this numbing is essential to ensure you remain comfortable during the treatment. With the anesthetic in place, your dental professional can work more efficiently without causing you pain.
Scaling and Root Planing
The first phase of the deep cleaning is scaling, where the focus is on removing plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces, including those below the gum line. Using specialized tools, the dental professional scrapes off the accumulated deposits of plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. An ultrasonic device that vibrates at high frequencies can also be employed to dislodge stubborn tartar. This combination of tools ensures that even the hardest-to-reach areas are thoroughly cleaned.
After scaling, the next phase is root planing. This involves smoothing the rough surfaces of your teeth’s roots. Smoothing is important because it discourages bacteria from quickly reattaching to the textured ridges and forming new plaque. A smooth root surface also allows the gums to heal and reattach more firmly, reducing the depth of gum pockets and promoting healthier tissue.
Care and Recovery
Deep cleaning is often performed in sections, known as quadrants, because the process can be quite intensive. Depending on the extent of the buildup and the sensitivity of your gums, the dental professional might schedule two or more sessions, a phased approach that not only minimizes discomfort but also ensures that each area receives adequate care.
Once the deep cleaning is complete, you may experience some mild soreness or sensitivity in the treated areas, but this discomfort is usually short-lived and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dentist will likely recommend a gentle mouthwash and advise you to avoid extreme temperatures in food and beverages for a few days.