DENTAL DEEP CLEANING

Deep Dental Cleaning in New Braunfels

Daily brushing is great, but it doesn’t remove all plaque in between your teeth. If you have leftover plaque that calcifies or hardens and becomes tartar, it can eventually lead to gum disease. To combat the plaque that brushing may leave behind, you should get at least two professional cleanings each year.

These regular dental cleanings are an important part of good oral hygiene, but did you know that not every type of cleaning is the same? In some cases, a standard cleaning by your dental hygienist doesn’t go far enough. Untreated gum disease can lead to a space or gap between your teeth and gums, where the tartar and plaque and bacteria can continue to build up. If that bacteria invades below your gum line, you may need a type of cleaning called a “dental deep cleaning” to restore the health of your gums. 

How is dental deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning?

Routine dental cleanings focus on your teeth at and above the gum line. This type of cleaning is recommended for most patients every six months. Dental deep cleaning on the other hand, uses special techniques to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gum line, all the way down to your tooth roots. You may need scaling and planing in just a few spots or the problem may be widespread. Basically, the goal of a regular cleaning is preventative maintenance and the goal of a deep teeth cleaning is to prevent gum disease from advancing and causing tooth loss. 

A deep cleaning consists of two parts: scaling and root planing.

  • Scaling: the process of removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and from the pocket areas between the teeth and gums.

  • Root planing:  involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the roots of your teeth with a scaling instrument. This can reduce the size of the space between your teeth and gums, helping your gums reattach to the teeth. 

While a regular cleaning only takes about 30-45 minutes, a deep cleaning often requires a minimum of two visits, which can each take 1 to 2 hours. You may also require a potential follow-up to ensure your gums and teeth are recovering and there are no additional pockets remaining.

How do I know if I need deep dental cleaning?

A deep dental cleaning is not required for every patient. However, for patients that have developed gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) or a more serious case of gum disease, a deep cleaning may be needed to prevent tooth loss and stop further damage.

It can be difficult to know when you need a deep cleaning as gum disease may not always cause pain or show visible symptoms. However, there are some warning signs to look out for:

  • Consistently bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

  • Permanent teeth that are separating or loose

  • Bleeding gums

  • Gums that are swollen, red, or tender

  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth

Your dentist will know for sure if you need a deep cleaning. During your exam, your dentist can use a probe to measure any pockets that have formed in the gums. They may also take x-rays to check for bone loss. If the dentist feels that the pockets are too deep to be treated with a standard cleaning and at-home care, you may need a deep cleaning to fully clear the infection and ensure proper healing. 

Is deep cleaning painful?

Teeth scaling and root planing can cause some discomfort, so you’ll receive a topical or local anesthetic to numb your gums.

You can expect some sensitivity after your treatment. Your gums might swell, and you might have minor bleeding, too.

What happens after the procedure?

Eating soft, non-acidic foods (yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes) for a few days after your procedure can help reduce sensitivity. You should also avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks. Taking over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can reduce inflammation, as well as rinsing with warm salt water. If gum bleeding lasts longer than 48 hours, call your dentist. 

If your immune system is compromised, you may also need to take an antibiotic for a few days to prevent a potential infection from the release of bacteria into the bloodstream.

Maintaining good dental health by brushing and flossing on a regular basis can promote healing and reduce further gum inflammation. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles at least twice per day, and floss and rinse with mouthwash at least once per day.

How much does deep teeth cleaning cost?

The cost of a deep cleaning can vary depending on the severity of gum disease or inflammation. It’s likely that you will have two visits, although some people might need up to four visits to completely remove all the tartar and plaque. During these cleanings, your mouth is divided into quadrants. You may pay per quadrant depending on where you live or how much treatment you need. If you have dental insurance, most plans cover deep cleanings if your dentist recommends it. 

In Conclusion 

A deep teeth cleaning helps get rid of bad breath and promotes healing of gum disease. Most patients respond very well to deep cleaning and, with proper after care, see rapid improvement in the condition of their gums. Over time, pockets will shrink and your gums will be restored. Deep cleanings do have risks, so it’s important to understand possible complications or side effects. Although a common, safe procedure, you can expect some sensitivity and swelling afterward. 

If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, or you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, don’t wait to contact our office. Give us a call and our team will be happy to answer any questions.