A cleaning at the dentist is a regular dental appointment with a dental hygienist or a dentist specifically meant to remove plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth as well as to polish the teeth. During a cleaning, the dentist may take x-rays, inspect the gums, and describe oral health and hygiene instructions.
A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more thorough cleaning than a regular cleaning that is typically used to treat gum disease. During a deep cleaning, the dental hygienist or dentist will use special instruments to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and will also smooth out the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach to the teeth properly.
This type of cleaning is also used to prevent future gum disease from developing.
Is dental cleaning the same as deep cleaning?
No, dental cleaning and deep cleaning are two separate procedures. Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or a dental scaling, is typically used to remove surface plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth and gums.
This procedure helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances, which may otherwise lead to the development of tooth decay and gum disease. Deep cleaning, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive procedure that is designed to address existing gum disease.
This process involves scaling and/or root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup on and below the gum line, followed by medicated solutions or irrigations to help reduce inflammation and bacterial levels.
The combination of these therapeutic techniques may help to prevent and manage the progression of gum disease.
What is another name for deep cleaning teeth?
Another name for deep cleaning teeth, also known as scalpel and root planing, is root scaling. Root scaling is a cleaning procedure in which a dentist or dental hygienist uses special tools to thoroughly remove hardened plaque and tartar deposits from beneath the gumline.
This procedure helps to prevent the development of infection and tooth decay. During root scaling, the dentist or hygienist may advise that an antibiotic be applied directly to the root of the tooth.
This can help reduce the risk of inflammation and infection in the surrounding area.
Why do dentist always recommend deep cleaning?
Dentists always recommend deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, as a way to remove bacteria and tartar stuck in deep grooves of your teeth and under your gums. When plaque and tartar build up, they cause inflammation and infection leading to periodontal (gum) disease.
Deep cleaning prevents further gum decay and allows your teeth to stay healthy and strong. During a deep cleaning procedure, a dentist or hygienist will use special tools and steady hands to reach down below the gum line and scrape away the hard, hardened plaque and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and the roots of your gums.
By cleaning deep, they can remove the tough tartar and plaque that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach. This addresses the underlying problem and prevents gum disease from progressing further.
How many times do you need a deep cleaning on your teeth?
It depends on your dental hygiene and overall oral health. Generally speaking, the American Dental Association recommends a professional deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) every three to four months if your gums and teeth are healthy.
However, if you have a history of gum disease or other issues, you may need more frequent cleanings. During your regular dental check-up appointments, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and recommend a deep cleaning schedule accordingly.
How long does periodontal cleaning last?
Periodontal cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a deep cleaning typically done to treat gum disease. It can be done in one or multiple appointments. The length of time the treatment lasts depends on your individual mouth and needs.
In most cases, periodontal cleaning can be completed in two to four sessions of 30-90 minutes. Typically, the first appointment is the longest and each appointment after will take less time as the gum pockets get deeper.
After the initial treatment, your dentist may recommend 6 to 12 months for a follow-up appointment for check-in and cleaning.
If you have advanced-stage gum disease, up to five appointments over three to four months may be necessary. Additionally, if your gum disease is at the advanced or chronic stages, your dentist may want to follow-up with periodontal maintenance appointments every three to four months to ensure that your gum disease stays under control.
In general, periodontal cleaning can last anywhere from one to four treatment sessions and usually requires 6-12 months of regular follow-up visits afterwards. Your dentist will be able to give you more information on what is best for your individual case.
Do dentists try to upsell?
Yes, many dentists do try to upsell. Upselling is when a dentist or other healthcare provider recommends a more expensive treatment or product than is typically covered by insurance. Dentists may upsell treatments such as teeth whitening, sealants, mouthguards, and veneers that aren’t covered by most insurance policies.
Dentists may also upsell products such as electric toothbrushes or special dental pastes and brushes. They may also suggest additional items that a patient purchase to take better care of their teeth and gums, such as tongue scrapers and water flossers.
It is important for patients to understand that upselling is a legitimate tool that dentists use to increase their income and provide the best possible care for their patients. Healthy teeth and gums lead to overall health so it is always a good idea to listen to your dentist’s suggestions and weigh the benefits before making a decision.
Why don t dentists do scale and polish?
Scale and polish is a specific process generally used during a dental cleaning that involves using special tools and cleaning solutions to remove plaque and tartar build-up from the teeth. Dentists typically do not do a scale and polish as part of their examination and cleaning process.
Rather, they may refer the patient to a dental hygienist who is specifically trained and qualified to provide this treatment. The dental hygienist will use specialized scraping tools to remove hardened plaque and tartar build-up off the surface of the teeth, followed by a professional cleaning with a special polishing paste to leave the surfaces of the teeth smooth and clean.
Depending on the condition of the patient’s teeth, the hygienist or dentist may also recommend additional treatments like tooth scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to improve the overall health of the teeth.
Why do you get a deep cleaning at the dentist?
Getting a deep cleaning at the dentist is an important part of maintaining oral health. It involves removing plaque and tartar, also known as calculus, from below and above the gumline. Plaque and tartar contain bacteria which can cause inflammation, gum disease, and infection.
Therefore, getting a deep cleaning helps prevent these serious oral health issues. A deep cleaning typically involves two stages: scaling and root planing. During scaling, the dentist removes the plaque and tartar from the teeth and under the gums.
Root planing is when the dentist uses special instruments to smooth out the root surfaces of the teeth to help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth. This is important because when the gums are secure against the root, bacteria is less likely to enter and cause infection.
Finally, getting a deep cleaning can help with symptoms such as bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, and sensitivity. It can also help reduce the likelihood of other serious health complications such as cardiac or respiratory illness.
Is a deep teeth cleaning painful?
A deep teeth cleaning is not necessarily painful, but it can be uncomfortable. During a deep teeth cleaning, your dental hygienist will use a special tool to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria from above and below the gum line.
This process can cause some temporary discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful. Some people may also experience some mild gum sensitivity after the cleaning due to the removal of the plaque and tartar.
If you are particularly concerned about the discomfort associated with a deep teeth cleaning, you can talk to your dentist or Hygienist. They will most likely be able to provide you with a numbing agent prior to the cleaning, which can help to alleviate any discomfort.
Additionally, they may be able to provide you with some pain relieving medications afterwards if needed.
How do I know if my teeth need deep cleaning?
The only way to know if your teeth need deep cleaning is to visit your dentist. During a regular checkup your dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums. They can often view areas of your teeth that may require deep cleaning and determine if it is necessary.
The dentist will also take dental X-rays to get a better understanding of what is going on beneath the surface of your teeth. If the dentist finds evidence of tartar and plaque buildup, they may recommend a deep cleaning.
Signs that may indicate a need for deep cleaning are persistent bad breath, swollen or tender gums, or gums that bleed easily. You may also notice that your gums appear to be receding. If any of these signs are present, it is important to talk to your dentist about getting a deep cleaning as soon as possible.
Is deep cleaning serious?
Yes, deep cleaning is a very serious activity and should not be taken lightly. Deep cleaning involves thoroughly scrubbing walls and surfaces, getting rid of clutter, polishing furniture and fixtures, and cleaning rugs and carpets.
It is a very involved process that requires a lot of time and effort. Deep cleaning can help to get rid of dust, grime, and dirt, as well as germs and bacteria that are not visible. It can also help to improve the overall look and feel of your home.
As such, deep cleaning should be taken seriously and done regularly to ensure optimal results.
What is expected from a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning is a thorough cleaning of a home or facility to achieve an extremely high level of cleanliness. It goes beyond what is normally expected from regular cleaning and is typically more detailed and effective.
It typically involves more time, resources, and specialized cleaning agents than an everyday cleaning.
Deep cleaning typically begins with a thorough vacuuming to remove surface dirt and debris, including around baseboards and in corners. All windows and surfaces then get washed and wiped down. In bathrooms, all fixtures get scrubbed, grout gets power-washed and disinfected, tiles are scrubbed, and shower curtains are cleaned.
Light fixtures, ceiling fans, and walls also get wiped down. In the kitchen, all appliances both inside and out are thoroughly cleaned and polished, as are sink, countertops, and the backsplash. Floors are then mopped and sometimes sealed.
This deep cleaning goes above and beyond what is expected from a standard cleaning, and can dramatically improve the presentation and feel of a home or facility. Although deep cleaning requires more time, resources, and specialty cleaning agents, it can be an invaluable way to get an incredible shine on any home or facility.
Can a dentist do a regular cleaning instead of deep cleaning?
Yes, a dentist can do a regular cleaning instead of deep cleaning. A regular cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, while a deep cleaning goes further, reaching below the gumline to the roots of the teeth to remove bacteria and hardened plaque buildup known as tartar.
Deep cleanings may also involve treating gum pockets and smoothing any rugged spots on the roots of teeth. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend a cleaning plan tailored to your specific situation.
How long does it take to recover from a deep cleaning?
It depends on the type of deep cleaning you are having done and the condition of your teeth prior to the deep cleaning. Generally, it takes several days for your gums to heal properly after a deep cleaning.
The pain and tenderness you may experience should subside after 24-48 hours. While you may experience some soreness near the treated site, you should be able to return to normal activities within a week.
If it has only been a few days since your deep cleaning, it is best to wait and see if the pain and tenderness subsides on its own. In some cases, using an over-the-counter anesthetic can help numb any discomfort.
If you do not experience relief after a week, visit your dentist for further advice.