Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?

Most patients only need to visit the dentist twice a year for a regular dental cleaning and checkup. During your cleaning, our team removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque), checks for signs of oral cancer, and polishes your teeth. However, we may recommend a deep cleaning.

In this blog post, we discuss how a deep cleaning is different than a regular cleaning.

When Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?

Deep cleanings treat gum disease. Gum disease develops when built-up bacteria irritates and infects your gum tissue. Early warning signs of the first stage – gingivitis – include bleeding, swollen, and tender gums. Gingivitis is usually caused by poor oral hygiene at home and can often be reversed with improved brushing and flossing, as well as better dietary choices.

If these changes aren’t implemented or your gums don’t improve with these changes, the disease will progress to periodontitis. This is associated with loose teeth, pain and tooth sensitivity, gum recession, and persistent bad breath. Deep pockets form as your teeth pull away from your gums. Bacteria accumulate in these pockets, causing destruction of your soft tissues and jawbone.

Regular Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

If you’re diagnosed with gum disease, we may recommend a deep cleaning. This is longer and more thorough than a regular cleaning. It could include scaling, a process that involves cleaning out tartar from above and below the gumline with special tools, or less invasive laser therapy.

Deep Cleanings at Dental Health Associates

If you have gum disease, we will develop a customized periodontal treatment plan to get your gum health back on track. You might need to come in 3-4 times a year as opposed to only twice a year. At Dental Health Associates, you can be confident that you’ll receive high-quality periodontal therapy to fight disease and prevent more serious issues like tooth loss.

If you have any additional questions about deep cleanings or think you may have gum disease, please contact us today!

Categorised in: Dental Health, Gum Health, Preventive Dental Care