Regular Cleaning
Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to clean your teeth and maintain oral health.
Benefits of Dental Cleaning
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Prevents cavities: Removing plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria, can prevent tooth decay.
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Stops tooth loss: Regular cleaning prevents periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
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Brightens your smile: Cleaning removes stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco.
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Freshens breath: Good oral hygiene, which includes regular cleanings, is crucial in preventing bad breath.
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Boosts overall health: Oral health is linked to overall health, affecting conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Frequency
It's generally recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months. However, your dentist might suggest a different schedule based on your individual health needs.
Preparing for a Dental Cleaning
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Regular brushing and flossing: Maintain good oral hygiene habits at home.
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Health information: Inform your dentist about any changes in your health or medications.
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Questions or concerns: Bring up any oral health concerns you may have during your visit.
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and can prevent more serious dental issues in the future.
Deep cleaning
Deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive dental procedure than a regular cleaning. It is typically recommended for patients with gum disease (periodontitis) or those at risk of developing it. Here's an overview of what deep teeth cleaning involves:
Steps of a Deep Teeth Cleaning
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Local Anesthesia:
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To ensure comfort, the dentist or hygienist may administer a local anesthetic to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth.
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Scaling:
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This step involves removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from above and below the gum line, all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.
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Root Planing:
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The dentist or hygienist will smooth out the roots of your teeth to help your gums reattach to your teeth. This step also makes it harder for plaque and tartar to accumulate in the future.
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Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning
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Prevents gum disease: By removing bacteria and tartar from below the gum line, deep cleaning can stop gum disease from progressing.
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Reduces inflammation: Scaling and root planing can reduce the inflammation and bleeding of the gums.
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Prevents tooth loss: Treating periodontitis early can prevent the loss of teeth due to the disease.
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Improves oral health: Deep cleaning promotes healthier gums and teeth overall.
Aftercare
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Pain and Sensitivity: You may experience some pain, sensitivity, and swelling in your gums for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
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Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.
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Follow-up Visits: Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to monitor your gum health and ensure the disease does not progress.
Frequency
Deep cleaning may be done in one or more visits, depending on the severity of the gum disease and the extent of the tartar buildup. Regular maintenance cleanings may be scheduled every three to four months after the initial treatment to prevent recurrence.
Signs You Might Need a Deep Cleaning
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Bleeding gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.
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Persistent bad breath: Halitosis that doesn’t go away with regular oral hygiene.
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Swollen, tender gums: Gums that are swollen, red, or tender to the touch.
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Receding gums: Gums that are pulling away from the teeth.
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Loose teeth: Teeth that feel loose or shifting.
Deep teeth cleaning is a crucial procedure for those with or at risk of gum disease. It helps to prevent the progression of the disease and maintain overall oral health. If you think you might need a deep cleaning, consult your dentist for an evaluation.