Learn about the benefits of a deep cleaning in combatting gum disease and discover how to promote the best outcome for your oral health after undergoing this treatment.
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Deep Cleaning: Taking Care of Bacterial Buildup Beneath the Gumline
When it comes to gum disease, a deep cleaning procedure specifically targets the bacterial buildup hidden beneath the gumline. By removing this buildup, the progression of gum disease can be significantly slowed down. It’s important to note that deep cleaning is necessary when signs of gum disease are present.
Understanding Deep Cleaning for Teeth
Deep cleaning should not be confused with routine cleaning. During a regular dental appointment, you receive an examination and a routine teeth cleaning. This type of cleaning is focused on removing plaque and tartar, which are hardened bacterial deposits that contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.
Routine cleaning, when combined with your at-home oral hygiene routine, is effective in protecting your teeth. However, it only addresses buildup on the visible surfaces of your teeth and between them. If gum disease begins to develop, bacteria can accumulate below the gumline, which cannot be reached with a routine cleaning.
Deep cleaning, on the other hand, eliminates bacterial buildup from those hard-to-reach areas, effectively halting the progress of gum disease. The procedure consists of two steps: scaling and root planing. These steps work together to combat the early stages of gum disease.
Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth below the gumline. Our hygienist will use special tools to reach deep into these crevices and eliminate bacteria.
After the scaling procedure, the hygienist will perform root planing, which involves smoothing the surface of the teeth beneath the gumline. This smoother surface makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to.
In severe cases, our board-certified periodontist may need to perform osseous surgery, which is a surgical deep cleaning procedure.
When Should You Consider Deep Cleaning?
If you regularly schedule dental appointments every six months, your dentist can detect the early signs of gum disease and recommend deep cleaning to prevent its progression.
However, it’s important to be proactive in recognizing the signs of gum disease yourself. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to reach out to our team at 5 WS to schedule an appointment:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Discomfort while chewing
- Visible gum recession
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you experience any of these signs. As gum disease advances, you may face more severe symptoms such as gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. At that point, additional treatment beyond deep cleaning may be necessary to address gum disease and restore any damage.
Remember, deep cleaning is not a routine preventive treatment like regular cleaning or fluoride treatment. It is only recommended when signs of gum disease are present.
After Deep Teeth Cleaning: What to Avoid
To ensure the best outcome and promote long-term oral health, it’s essential to know what to expect after a deep cleaning procedure. Deep cleaning is a straightforward process that typically requires just one visit, although a follow-up examination may be recommended to ensure that gum disease is under control.
Before the procedure, you will receive a topical or local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. While deep cleaning itself is not painful, it may be uncomfortable for patients without proper anesthesia. Therefore, it’s important to avoid eating until the numbness wears off to prevent accidentally biting your tongue or gums, which can lead to injury.
Following the deep cleaning, your gums and teeth may be sensitive. It’s crucial to be mindful of your diet and avoid foods and drinks that may cause irritation. Stay away from hot or cold foods, hard or sharp foods, and anything that requires excessive chewing for approximately 48 hours.
Over-the-counter pain medications can help alleviate any discomfort you may experience. Additionally, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. In this case, make sure to follow the specific instructions provided.
Do Gums Reattach After a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
One common question patients have is how long it takes for their gums to heal after a deep cleaning procedure. During the healing process, your gums will reattach to your teeth. Initially, you may experience sore or bleeding gums for a few days. However, after this initial phase, you should start feeling comfortable and essentially back to normal. The complete healing process may take several weeks, but you shouldn’t experience any symptoms as your gums heal and reattach.
Deep cleaning plays a crucial role in ensuring that your gums reattach properly after experiencing gum disease. By removing built-up plaque and tartar, your gums can once again adhere to the surfaces of your teeth.
Trust 5 WS for Your Gum Health
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, 5 WS is here to provide the necessary treatment in Houston, TX. Our services include deep cleaning and other treatments for advanced cases.
At 5 WS, we prioritize your comfort and tranquility. Our spa-like environment, complete with warm towels and blankets, offers a luxurious and relaxing experience. Book an appointment with our board-certified periodontist today and receive the care you need for optimal gum health.
