Your Guide on What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning
A dental deep cleaning is a more in-depth process than a regularly scheduled cleaning, and it targets built-up dirt, grime, and hard-to-reach areas. Overall, a deep cleaning is something that many will need eventually in their life, especially if they’ve not been consistent with regular cleanings. With that being said, understanding what happens during a deep cleaning can help you prepare for the visit. By the end of this article, you’ll understand what to expect and how to prepare for your visit as a patient.
What Is a Dental Deep Cleaning?
A dental deep cleaning isn’t a surgical procedure, but rather a more in-depth version of a standard dental cleaning. The goal of a deep cleaning is to remove built-up plaque, tartar, and bacteria that have accumulated on the teeth. There are two main components of a deep cleaning: scaling and root planing. Scaling is the process of removing hardened plaque, and root planing is the process of smoothing the tooth roots to avoid bacteria from collecting. The biggest difference between routine cleaning and deep cleaning is that deep cleaning focuses on treatment, rather than prevention.
Signs that you might need a deep clean:
- Swollen, red, and tender gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Moderate gum disease
- Gum recession
- Tartar builds up below the gum line
- Loose teeth
How To Prepare for Your Appointment
A deep cleaning is generally quite simple, but being prepared can help the appointment go more smoothly and, overall, make the experience more comfortable for you. The first way to prepare for your deep cleaning appointment is to brush and floss before arriving, unless your dentist recommends otherwise. Additionally, you should arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork before the appointment. You should also bring a list of any medications, prescriptions, or vitamins that you are currently taking.
Making your dentist aware of any medical conditions, such as pregnancy, diabetes, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, and allergies, is essential to keeping you safe during the cleaning. Eat a light meal before arriving at your appointment, and be prepared for any anesthetics that may be used. Be open with your dentist if you have dental anxiety or need extra care during the appointment to ensure you are as comfortable as possible.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning can often include a variety of treatments, such as gum cleaning, plaque removal, and root smoothing. Let’s look at these procedures in more detail so you can be better prepared for what’s to come.
Examine Your Gums
The first thing a dentist will do during a deep cleaning is examine your gums, because they are more than likely showing signs of a problem before anything else. They will look for potential areas of concern and measure periodontal pockets.
Removing Build Up and Plaque
During a deep cleaning, the dentist will scale above and below the gumline to remove any excess buildup and tartar on the teeth and under the gums. This is where a deep cleaning differs from a traditional cleaning: there is much more to do.
Smoothing Tooth Roots
Root planing is a technique used to allow the gums to reattach. Ultimately, it’s a procedure that may be necessary if you’ve been dealing with excessive buildup around the gumline or receding gum lines.
Treatment Completion
To complete the treatment, the dentist will discuss whether you need another appointment soon or can continue with biannual appointments. They will also discuss anything they’ve found, care plans, and any other useful information to close out the appointment. This is where your questions about how to proceed after your deep cleaning will be answered.
Does Getting a Deep Cleaning Hurt?
A deep cleaning will not cause the patient any pain because anesthetics are used. This will prevent any pain; however, you may feel scraping, movement, and pressure during the cleaning. Additionally, your teeth and gums may be sore and sensitive after treatment.
What Do I Do After a Deep Cleaning?
Once your deep cleaning is complete, you’ll want to follow any aftercare instructions your dentist gave you. You’re going to experience some sensitivity, but knowing the warning signs that something deeper may be wrong is necessary. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth properly after the cleaning and avoid hard, sweet, or gummy foods for a day or two.
Why Should You Get a Deep Cleaning?
There are many reasons to get a deep cleaning, and many reasons your dentist may recommend one. Here are some benefits to getting a deep cleaning:
- Removed bacteria beneath the gums that can cause issues
- Freshens breath and cleans teeth
- Lowers the risk of tooth loss and gum disease
- Reduces gum inflammation
- Supports overall oral health
Scheduling Your Deep Dental Cleaning
Scheduling your deep cleaning can support your oral health and help you maintain your oral hygiene. It’s a great way to address any issues, get a deeper cleaning than your traditional dental cleaning, and also maintain fresh breath and a healthy mouth. If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, or if you feel you need one, be sure to refer back to our article so you can be prepared for your appointment and get the most out of it. Always be transparent with your dentist and communicate your needs, questions, and concerns before, during, and after your appointment. If you’re looking for a reliable family dentist who can provide a deep cleaning, contact us at Sage Dental! We’re happy to schedule your appointment, walk you through the process, and be your trusted family dentist!
