is teeth deep cleaning common

Is Teeth Deep Cleaning Common?

Dental cleaning is an essential practice in maintaining oral health. It involves the removal of plaque and other unwanted materials from the teeth and gums. But beyond the standard teeth cleaning, there is something known as deep cleaning. You may hear it from your dentist, or you may have even had it already done. But what exactly is deep cleaning, and is it common? This article will explore everything you need to know about teeth deep cleaning.

What is Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning is also called scaling and root planing. Unlike regular teeth cleaning, it targets deeper areas of the gums that standard cleaning cannot reach. This type of cleaning is necessary when a person has periodontitis or severe gum disease. Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected and expose the roots of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage to the teeth and gums. Deep cleaning aims to remove the bacteria that cause these infections.

How is Deep Cleaning Done?

Deep cleaning involves two procedures, scaling and root planing. Scaling is the removal of plaque, tartar, and other debris from the surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline. It may require the use of special tools, such as an ultrasonic scaler or a manual scaler. Root planing, on the other hand, is the smoothening of the root surfaces to remove rough spots where bacteria may cling. The dentist may use a scaling tool or a laser to do this.

Is Deep Cleaning Painful?

The thought of deep cleaning may cause some anxiety because it involves cleaning beneath the gumline, which can be sensitive. However, the dentist can use a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting the procedure. In some cases, patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after the treatment, but it should subside in a few days. Pain management medication or a warm saltwater rinse can help alleviate any pain or discomfort.

Who Needs Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning is recommended for patients with severe gum disease or periodontitis. It may also be needed for people who have severe tartar buildup that regular cleaning cannot remove. Your dentist will recommend deep cleaning if they notice any signs of periodontitis during your routine cleaning or by examining x-rays of your teeth. Signs of gum disease include swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.

Is Deep Cleaning Common?

Deep cleaning may not be a common procedure for everyone, but it is a necessary one for those who have periodontitis or have not had regular dental cleanings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and above have some form of periodontal disease. This figure increases to 70.1% for adults aged 65 years and above. Although deep cleaning may not be common for everyone, it is a crucial procedure to help prevent serious dental problems.

Conclusion

In summary, deep cleaning is a necessary dental procedure that helps maintain oral health. It involves removing bacteria and other harmful substances from beneath the gumline to prevent infection and damage to the teeth and gums. Although it may not be a common procedure for everyone, it is necessary for those with severe gum disease and tartar buildup. If your dentist recommends deep cleaning, it is essential to follow their advice to ensure long-term oral health.