when is deep teeth cleaning necessary

When Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Necessary?

Taking care of our teeth is an essential part of maintaining good overall health. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups are great ways to maintain healthy teeth, but sometimes more intensive care is necessary. Deep teeth cleaning is a procedure that can help when you have serious gum or tooth problems, but when exactly do you need one?

What is Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning is also called root planing and scaling. It involves removing plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth C not just what you can see on the surface, but also below the gum line. This helps keep your gums healthy and can prevent future problems like gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss.

When Do You Need Deep Teeth Cleaning?

1. Gum Disease

If you have swollen, bleeding or receding gums, you might have gum disease. In the early stages, you might not notice any symptoms, but over time it can become more severe. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Deep teeth cleaning can help remove the bacteria and debris that cause gum disease.

2. Build-up of Tartar and Plaque

Despite regular brushing, flossing and dental visits, some people are more prone to tartar and plaque build-up. This build-up can harden and cause gum inflammation or even tooth decay. In such cases, deep teeth cleaning helps remove the build-up of tartar and plaque.

3. History of Periodontal Disease

If you have previously suffered from gum disease or periodontitis, your dentist may recommend deep teeth cleaning as a preventive measure. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that can damage the bone and tissue that support your teeth. Deep teeth cleaning can help keep it at bay.

4. Heavy Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and alcohol consumption affect the healing of the gums, and increase tartar and plaque build-up. If you smoke or consume alcohol heavily, you may require deep teeth cleaning more often than others.

5. Genetics

Some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease, so no matter how much care they take, they might still need deep teeth cleaning. Inherited conditions such as enamel defects or cleft palate may also require deep teeth cleaning.

Side-Effects of Deep Teeth Cleaning

While deep teeth cleaning is generally safe and effective, it is not without side effects. Following your procedure, you may experience:

1. Swollen and Tender Gums

Immediately after your deep teeth cleaning, your gums may feel swollen and sore. This is normal and will usually subside within a few days.

2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Foods

You may feel increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods following deep teeth cleaning. This is because the process exposes more of your teeth to the open air. However, this sensitivity usually fades away on its own in a week or two.

3. Loose Teeth

Deep teeth cleaning can cause your teeth to feel a bit looser than usual. This is because the process creates a small gap between your teeth and gums. However, this should not be cause for alarm, as the teeth will firm up again in some time.

Conclusion

Deep teeth cleaning may sound daunting, but it is a crucial part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. While it is typically reserved for people with gum disease or other oral health problems, it is also recommended as a preventive measure for certain patients. Speak to your dentist to know if deep teeth cleaning is right for you.

Remember, healthy teeth and gums are a vital aspect of overall wellness. Invest in them today to ensure a healthy future.