Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for a healthy smile, but sometimes even regular brushing and flossing can’t prevent the buildup of stubborn plaque and tartar. In such cases, a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, becomes necessary. If you’re wondering about the duration of this procedure and its benefits, read on to learn more.
What Does The Dentist Do During A Deep Teeth Cleaning?
A deep dental cleaning involves more than just the surface-level cleaning you receive during a regular checkup. Here’s what the dentist does during a deep cleaning:
- Assessment: The dentist or dental hygienist will first assess the extent of plaque and tartar buildup and evaluate the condition of your gums.
- Scaling: Using specialized tools, the dentist will carefully remove the accumulated plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gumline. This process might require more time and attention compared to a regular cleaning.
- Root Planing: After scaling, the dentist will perform root planing, which involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of tooth roots. This helps prevent further plaque buildup and encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Antibacterial Rinse: To reduce the risk of infection, an antibacterial rinse might be used to thoroughly cleanse the treated areas.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Deep Dental Cleaning?
Recovery time after a deep dental cleaning is relatively short, but the specifics can vary depending on factors such as your overall oral health, the extent of the procedure, and how well you follow post-care instructions. Generally, you might experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated areas for a few days to a week. It’s essential to follow the dentist’s recommendations for proper aftercare to ensure a swift recovery.
Can A Deep Cleaning Be Done In One Visit?
Whether a deep cleaning can be completed in one visit depends on the severity of the plaque and tartar buildup and the dentist’s assessment of your oral health. In some cases, particularly when the buildup is extensive, the deep cleaning might be split into multiple appointments to ensure thoroughness and patient comfort.
Is A Deep Teeth Cleaning Worth It?
Absolutely, deep teeth cleaning is worth it for several reasons:
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Deep cleaning can effectively remove the sources of infection and inflammation that lead to gum disease, helping to prevent its progression.
- Improved Oral Health: By removing tartar buildup, deep cleaning reduces the risk of cavities and promotes overall oral health.
- Fresh Breath: The removal of bacteria-laden tartar contributes to fresher breath and improved oral odor.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Deep cleaning can also have aesthetic benefits, as it often results in cleaner, brighter-looking teeth.
Do They Put You To Sleep For Deep Cleaning Teeth?
No, deep dental cleaning is typically performed using local anesthesia. This means that the dentist will numb the areas being treated, ensuring that you don’t experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. You will remain awake throughout the process, but you’ll be comfortable and pain-free.
What Happens If You Don’t Deep Clean Your Teeth?
Neglecting deep dental cleaning can have serious consequences for your oral health:
- Gum Disease: Failure to remove plaque and tartar can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and progress to more severe gum disease (periodontitis).
- Tooth Loss: Untreated gum disease can result in tooth mobility and even tooth loss as the infection affects the supporting structures of the teeth.
- Infections: The bacteria present in tartar can cause infections that spread beyond the mouth, affecting other parts of the body.
- Bad Breath: Bacteria from tartar contribute to persistent bad breath.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Tartar buildup can cause teeth to appear yellow or discolored.
In conclusion, a deep dental cleaning is a vital procedure for maintaining optimal oral health. While the duration of the cleaning can vary depending on the specifics of your case, the benefits of improved oral health, prevention of gum disease, and enhanced aesthetics make it well worth the time spent in the dentist’s chair. Always prioritize regular dental checkups and follow the dentist’s recommendations for a healthy and beautiful smile.
