Dental deep cleaning or regular cleaning, which is a better choice? Good dental health and oral hygiene are essential for a healthy life and begin with routine teeth care. So, take care of your teeth regularly to ensure a healthy and happy life. It improves the appearance of your teeth and guarantees their strength, in addition to improving the general health of your body. Teeth weaken and become more vulnerable to diseases and infections when they skip regular cleaning. In extreme situations, tooth loss may result. It is essential to address cavities and prevent periodontal disease to safeguard against the risk of tooth loss.
Regular cleaning primarily emphasizes the gum line, where dental professionals carefully scale and polish the outer surface of the teeth. On the other hand, deep teeth cleaning goes a step further by targeting the removal of bacteria colonies and tenacious tartar from the roots of your teeth. This thorough approach is especially beneficial for individuals with gum disease, as it helps mitigate its progression and restore oral health.
What is Dental Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, comprised of scaling and root planing, is a comprehensive dental technique intended to cure and prevent advanced gum disease, especially in cases where periodontitis has established itself. Tartar buildup on teeth’s exteriors and roots, resulting in gum infections, requires dental scaling and root planing.
Those who exhibit gum disease signs, such as redness and swelling of the gums, should specifically consider deep cleaning. Deep dental cleaning is an effective way to halt infection progression and maintain healthy oral health.
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Dental Cleaning
Deciding between deep and regular dental cleaning is crucial to maintaining a healthy smile. The foundation of oral health is dental cleanliness. So how does it differ from one other, and which is the best fit for you? Let’s examine the differences between these two dental procedures to assist you in making an informed choice.
Dental Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing):
1. Frequency.
Those patients with gum disease, particularly in advanced stages, should consider deep cleaning. The severity of the problem and the dentist’s recommendation determine how often you should get deep cleanings.
2. Procedure.
Root planing and scaling are the two steps in the deep cleaning process. The purpose of scaling is to remove tartar and deeply ingrained plaque behind the gum line by hand scraping and, in certain situations, by using an ultrasonic device. Root planing aims to smooth the root surfaces to avoid further bacterial accumulation.
3. Pain and Discomfort.
Since deep cleaning involves cleaning behind the gum line, it may be more painful. Dentists often use local anesthesia to minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure.
4. Therapeutic Focus.
A deep cleaning is essential for individuals with gum disease since it treats the condition effectively, reduces inflammation, and prevents it from progressing.
5. Cost.
Deep cleaning may come with higher costs, and insurance policies may not cover it. It is imperative that you and your dentist discuss charges and that you confirm the coverage of your insurance.
Regular Cleaning:
1. Frequency.
Prophylaxis, or regular dental cleanings, are usually advised every six months. These cleanings focus on maintaining your oral health regularly.
2. Procedure.
A dental hygienist primarily removes surface-level plaque and tartar during regular dental cleaning. Scaling is used in this procedure to get rid of these deposits, and then polishing is done to make the tooth surface smoother and more attractive.
3. Pain and Discomfort.
Regular dental cleanings typically cause little to no discomfort and are painless. Their purpose is to make them routine and comfortable.
4. Preventive Focus.
Maintaining general oral health through routine dental cleanings is the main objective in preventing common dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
5. Cost.
Regular dental cleaning is an affordable and convenient alternative because dental insurance frequently covers these procedures.
Is it necessary to deep clean your teeth?
Deep cleaning of an individual’s teeth may be necessary depending on their oral health and particular dental issues. These are some of the instances of needing a deep dental cleaning.
1. Gum Disease (Periodontitis):
When gum disease is detected, deep cleaning is necessary, especially in cases of advanced periodontitis. Often, this problem results in pockets forming around the teeth, which provide an environment for germs to flourish. Deep cleaning is required to lessen the pocket depth, eradicate bacterial colonies, and keep the condition from worsening.
2. Excessive Tartar Buildup:
Deep cleaning is required when the tooth’s surface and hidden roots have a substantial tartar accumulation. Bacteria may thrive in tartar, which increases the risk of gum disease and possibly tooth loss.
3. Infection Indicators:
Gums that are red, swollen, or bleeding may be symptoms of a persistent gum infection. Deep dental cleaning is necessary in such conditions to address dental issues and restore oral health.
What to Expect After Deep Cleaning Your Teeth?
After deep cleaning, one should anticipate gum discomfort and increased sensitivity to hot liquids and meals. You should avoid food that would strain the gums, such as crunchy, hard-to-chew, and sticky delicacies. Additionally, eating acidic foods might aggravate soreness and sensitivity. Using desensitizing toothpaste could also be beneficial. A small amount of blood may also occur during brushing, but it is temporary.
Delaying flossing for approximately a week and refraining from brushing the afflicted area for a few days will help prevent the same. Patients may think about using mouthwash or over-the-counter pain medication to speed up the healing process, as advised by their doctors. Rinse your mouth four to six times with salt and water to maintain cleanliness and avoid infections. After a procedure, you should do this within 24 hours.
Whichever choice best fits your unique dental care needs will depend on your consultation with your dentist.
Also Read: The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups