It is common knowledge that everyone should get their teeth cleaned twice a year by their dental team. This helps to prevent cavities and other oral health issues. But did you know that some people need deep dental cleanings? What exactly is this service, and what benefits does it offer? This blog post offers valuable information.
What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
During a routine dental cleaning, your hygienist carefully cleans all the surfaces of your teeth that are visible above the gumline. A deep cleaning is more intensive; your hygienist uses special tools to clean any pockets that have formed between the teeth and gums. They also smooth out the tooth roots so bacteria can no longer cling to them as easily. This service helps to get rid of bacterial accumulation and stop gum disease from progressing.
It is important to note that deep cleanings are only necessary for individuals who are trying to stop or manage gum disease; this treatment is not intended for individuals who have never had an active gum infection.
The Benefits of Deep Dental Cleanings
Deep dental cleanings can deliver some powerful benefits for both your oral and overall health:
- Stop gum disease from progressing: Without treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, ongoing oral pain, and other serious consequences. A deep cleaning has the potential to stop the infection from causing widespread damage.
- Improved oral comfort: After your mouth heals from a deep cleaning, you can expect greater comfort and less bleeding when you brush and floss.
- Better breath and a more attractive smile: Getting rid of harmful bacteria can make your mouth smell better and reduce unsightly inflammation and redness.
- Lower risk of systemic health problems: Untreated gum disease is associated with a heightened risk of many conditions, including heart attack, stroke, dementia, and more. Caring properly for your mouth may delay or prevent these issues.
How Often Are Deep Cleanings Necessary?
In order to fully benefit from a deep dental cleaning, it is important that you follow your care team’s recommendations. Often, just one initial deep cleaning is necessary (which may take place across a few appointments). This may get rid of active infections and give your gums a chance to heal. It can also reduce the depth of pockets where disease-causing bacteria can hide.
After the initial deep cleaning, you might need maintenance cleanings every 3 – 4 months. These visits should be less extensive than the initial service but still play a vital role in preventing flare-ups of gum disease.
Deep dental cleanings offer an effective, non-surgical way to address many cases of gum disease! Talk to your care team if you believe you could benefit from this treatment.
Meet the Practice
Dr. John C. Tunnell is a board-certified periodontist (dentist who specializes in gum health). Under his guidance, our team offers both non-surgical and surgical treatment for gum disease, including deep cleanings. If you have symptoms of gum disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, we encourage you to visit us for a consultation. Contact our Dallas, TX, office at 469-640-6730.