who does deep cleaning of teeth

Who Does Deep Cleaning of Teeth?

When it comes to maintaining good oral health, regular brushing and flossing are essential habits that must be practiced daily. However, even with the most diligent and thorough oral hygiene routines, there are certain areas in your mouth where plaque and tartar can accumulate over time.

These areas are often difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing alone, which is why deep cleaning of teeth is recommended by dental professionals. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that removes buildup and bacteria on your teeth and under your gums to help prevent gum disease and other oral health issues.

But who is qualified to perform this procedure? In this article, we'll answer the question of who does deep cleaning of teeth, so you can have a better understanding of what to expect during this dental procedure.

Subheading 1: What is Deep Cleaning of Teeth?

Before we dive into who does deep cleaning of teeth, let's first understand what the procedure entails. As mentioned earlier, deep cleaning is a dental procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.

While regular cleaning with a toothbrush and floss can help remove some of the surface-level buildup on your teeth, deep cleaning is necessary to remove buildup that has accumulated over time and has become embedded in the gum line and tooth roots.

During the procedure, your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to scrape away plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and under your gums. They will also help smooth out any rough spots on your tooth roots to discourage further bacteria buildup.

Subheading 2: Who Performs Deep Cleaning of Teeth?

Now that we understand what deep cleaning is, the next question is who does deep cleaning of teeth. The procedure is typically performed by either a dentist or a dental hygienist.

While both dentists and dental hygienists are qualified to perform deep cleaning procedures, it's important to note that the level of depth and extent of cleaning can vary depending on the individual's oral health.

Dentists have a broader scope of practice and can perform a range of dental services, including deep cleaning. However, dental hygienists typically specialize in preventive dental care and have extensive training and experience in performing deep cleaning procedures.

Subheading 3: How to Prepare for Deep Cleaning of Teeth

If you've been advised to undergo deep cleaning of teeth, it's important to know how to prepare for the procedure. First and foremost, make sure you communicate any concerns or questions with your dentist or dental hygienist. They will be able to provide you with more information about what to expect during the procedure, as well as address any fears or anxieties you may have.

It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene leading up to your appointment. This means brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding any foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.

Additionally, if you're nervous about the procedure, you can ask your dentist about options for sedation or anesthesia to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure.

Subheading 4: What to Expect During the Procedure

During the actual deep cleaning procedure, your dentist or dental hygienist will begin by numbing your gums with a local anesthetic to help minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

Next, they will use specialized dental instruments to gently scrape away any plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums. Depending on the extent of buildup and the amount of tartar and plaque underneath the gum line, the procedure can take anywhere from one to two hours.

After the procedure is complete, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications or a special mouth rinse to help alleviate any pain or discomfort.

Subheading 5: Aftercare and Follow-up

To ensure that your deep cleaning procedure was successful in removing all plaque and tartar buildup, it's important to follow good oral hygiene practices in the days and weeks following the procedure.

This includes brushing and flossing regularly and using an antibacterial mouthwash to help prevent the buildup of bacteria in your mouth. Additionally, you should schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to help maintain good oral health.

In conclusion, deep cleaning of teeth is an important dental procedure that can help prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Whether performed by a dentist or dental hygienist, the procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums to promote healthy teeth and gums. With proper preparation, aftercare, and follow-up, you can ensure that your deep cleaning procedure is successful in maintaining good oral health for years to come.