Deep Cleanings
During a standard dental cleaning, a dental hygienist cleans all surfaces of your teeth above the gum line. This same process is performed during a deep teeth cleaning, but the cleaning continues below the gum line, removing tartar and other build-up from the “pocket” that has formed between the root of the teeth and gums. Healthy gums have a pocket that measures 3 millimeters or under, but if you have long standing gingivitis or periodontal disease the pockets get deeper. Dentists often recommend a deep teeth cleaning or what is referred to as Scaling and Root Planning.
Periodontal disease occurs when calculus, tarter and plaque buildup start to cause inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, it can lead to serious damage and bone loss surrounding the teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
Deep teeth cleanings usually require 2 to 3 visits to the hygienist. A local anesthetic is used to numb the mouth during deep cleaning so the patient is comfortable and experiences virtually no pain. A follow-up visit several weeks after the deep cleaning will ensure that the gums are healing properly and home care is being followed.
Benefits of Deep Cleanings:
• Stops gum disease
• Fights bad breath
• Protects teeth
• Promotes healthy gums
• Prevents tooth loss
