My dentist said I need a deep cleaning.
Do I really need one?
If you have faced the same suggestion and found yourself confused about what to do, don’t worry, as we have some insight for you.
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing (SRP) in dental lingo, might seem a bit scary. But it’s really important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
For folks unfamiliar with it, there are several reasons for deep cleaning. Deep cleaning is a special treatment for gum disease that doesn’t involve surgery.
Regular teeth cleaning focuses on the surface of your teeth and just above your gums. However, deep cleaning goes deeper, removing plaque and tartar from below your gumline and around the roots of your teeth.
In this blog, we’ll talk about why deep cleaning is so important, who might need it, what the procedure involves, and how it can help you more than you might think.
Let’s clear up any confusion and learn the truth about this vital part of teeth care.
The basics of deep teeth cleaning
What is deep cleaning?
As we’ve mentioned, deep cleaning goes beyond the standard teeth cleaning. It addresses the health of your gums, known as the “foundation” of your teeth.
Periodontal disease, characterized by gum inflammation and bone decline around the teeth, often requires deep cleaning to prevent further damage.
The treatment involves two procedures:
- Cleaning: The first step is to get rid of all the plaque and tartar (also called calculus) buildup on the teeth and below the gums, where regular brushing can’t reach.
- Root planing: This means making the roots of the teeth smoother to get rid of any rough spots where germs and bacteria like to collect. This also helps the gums to heal and stick back to the teeth.
When do you need a deep cleaning?
The need for a deep cleaning becomes apparent when you have signs of more advanced gum disease, such as:
- 5-millimeter pockets or more between tooth and gum
- Visible tartar buildup around the gumline
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- X-rays show bone loss and excessive tartar
If you need help understanding whether you need a deep cleaning, call us. We can assess the condition of your gums and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Hear more from Dr. Klooster:
The importance of deep cleaning
Preventing gum disease progression
Gum disease usually develops slowly and often begins with gingivitis, when your gums get inflamed. If you don’t care for gingivitis, it can turn into periodontitis, where the bone that holds your teeth starts to decay.
At this point, getting a deep cleaning is important to stop any more damage. Deep cleaning gets rid of the infection and inflammation. If you don’t treat it, you might lose your teeth.
Healthier heart, healthier you
Did you know that there’s a link between gum disease and heart disease? This fact highlights another reason for deep cleaning. Research has shown that the inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease might play a role in heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke.
By treating gum disease with deep cleaning, you’re potentially reducing your risk of cardiovascular problems.
General well-being
Good oral health isn’t just about having a bright smile. It affects your ability to eat, speak, and socialize comfortably. Furthermore, oral issues can impact your self-esteem.
You’re investing in your overall wellness by maintaining proper dental care, including deep cleaning when necessary.
The deep cleaning procedure
What to expect during deep cleaning
A deep cleaning procedure can take longer than a regular cleaning because it’s detailed. Our dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity, but this is a sign that the deep cleaning is working. Your gums and teeth need time to heal, so follow our post-treatment instructions carefully.
Does deep cleaning hurt?
One of the most common hesitations about deep cleaning is the fear of pain. However, with modern anesthetics and pain management techniques, you should only feel minor discomfort during the procedure.
The benefits of a deep cleaning far outweigh any temporary sensations you might experience.
The cost of deep cleaning
Healthcare costs concern many people, and dental treatment is no exception. The cost of deep cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the treatment needed and the insurance coverage.
Does dental insurance cover deep cleaning?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of deep cleaning as it’s a recognized procedure for gum disease treatment.
Before proceeding with a deep cleaning, it’s wise to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses you might have.
Investing in your health
Though the upfront cost of a deep cleaning might seem significant, viewing it as an investment in your health is essential. Preventing major dental issues and potential health complications down the line can save you money and, more importantly, help you maintain a high standard of living.
After the deep cleaning
Maintaining results with good oral hygiene
After a deep cleaning, the most crucial aspect is maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.
These habits, along with regular dental checkups, can prevent the need for further deep cleanings and support the health of your smile.
Long-term benefits
The effects of deep cleaning are long-lasting, particularly with proper maintenance. It reduces the depth of the periodontal pockets, crucial for keeping gum disease at bay and maintaining a strong foundation for your teeth.
Final thoughts
A deep cleaning might not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, but it’s worth prioritizing.
You’re taking a proactive step toward long-term oral health by understanding the importance of deep teeth cleaning and not shying away from this crucial part of preventive dental care.
So, if you are recommended a deep cleaning, you can rest assured that it’s for your benefit and don’t hesitate to ask any questions about the procedure.
The next time you schedule your dental checkup, remember that beneath the surface of every healthy smile is a strong and healthy foundation.
And with the right care, including deep cleaning when necessary, you can ensure your grin stays bright for years.
Ready to prioritize your oral health? Schedule your deep cleaning today!
Your future self will thank you.
Or:
- Call our Holly Springs office: (919) 362-1394
- Call our Raleigh office: (919) 239-4544
- Email us at: team@kloosterfamilydentistry.com
Book a consultation at our Holly Springs or Raleigh, NC, location! Our offices are near Morrisville, Angier, Garner, Buies Creek, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, and Knightdale.