Preventive dentistry plays a critical role in maintaining your oral health. At a
periodontal practice, one of the most essential preventive procedures is known as
"deep cleaning."
At our practice, we often recommend deep cleaning to stop the progression of gum
disease and avoid serious complications such as tooth or bone loss. It is a routine
yet effective procedure that can significantly enhance your oral health.
What is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also referred to as scaling and root planing, is a comprehensive
procedure designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line.
It plays an essential role in preventing gum disease and preserving overall dental
health.
Why is Deep Cleaning Important?
Deep cleaning is crucial for:
Preventing Gum Disease: Removing harmful plaque and tartar helps to prevent
the development and progression of gum disease.
Treating Early Gum Disease: Deep cleaning is often the first step in treating
gingivitis and periodontitis.
Maintaining Overall Dental Health: Regular deep cleanings contribute to the
long-term health of both teeth and gums.
Initial Examination: During your consultation, our periodontist will conduct
a thorough oral exam, often using diagnostic tools to assess the health of your
gums and teeth.
Periodontal Charting: This involves measuring the depth of the gum pockets
around each tooth to determine the need for deep cleaning and check for signs of
periodontal disease.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling: This step focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup from the
tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line.
Root Planing: Following scaling, we smooth the surfaces of the tooth roots,
which helps the gums reattach, reduces pocket depths, and promotes healing.
Post-Cleaning Care: After your deep cleaning, we provide personalized oral
hygiene advice to prevent further plaque buildup and ensure the continued health
of your gums.
Follow-Up Visits: Regular visits may be recommended for patients with a history
of gum disease to monitor gum health and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning
Prevents Gum Disease: Deep cleaning significantly reduces the risk of developing
periodontal disease.
Improves Gum Health: It helps reduce gum inflammation, bleeding, and discomfort.
Prevents Tooth Loss: By treating the underlying causes of gum disease, deep
cleaning plays an essential role in preventing tooth loss.
Improves Overall Health: Maintaining good oral hygiene through deep cleaning
supports your overall well-being, as oral health is closely linked to general health.
How to Determine the Need for Deep Cleaning
Our periodontist will evaluate your need for deep cleaning based on:
Depth of Gum Pockets: Pockets deeper than 3-4 millimeters typically require
deep cleaning.
Symptoms of Gum Disease: Signs like bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession
suggest the need for deep cleaning.
Oral Health History: If you have a history of dental problems, more frequent
deep cleanings may be necessary.
Schedule Your Deep Cleaning
We are committed to helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. For
many, a deep cleaning is an important step toward achieving optimal oral health.
Schedule your consultation today!