You know what to expect when you go to your dentist every six months for a routine exam. Your dental professional may take x-rays, and your hygienist will clean your teeth. This process may seem insignificant, but the importance of regular dental cleanings should not be underestimated.
Going to the dentist twice a year lets your dentist stay current with potential dental issues that could cause more significant problems later. One such problem occurs when bacteria and tartar build up on your teeth, which could lead to the need for deep dental cleaning.
What Is the Difference Between Regular Cleaning and Deep Dental Cleaning?
When you go to the dentist for a regular cleaning, the hygienist will clean your teeth up to the gum line, removing plaque and tartar. Regular cleaning can be performed in one visit to the dentist’s office.
When you go to the dentist for deep dental cleaning, the process is more extensive because gum disease is present. Gum disease occurs when you have bacteria present in your mouth; too much bacteria will become plaque on your teeth, and this plaque leads to inflammation.
The dentist will clean below the gum line and remove plaque and tartar from the pockets between your teeth and gums. These pockets are caused when your gums become inflamed. A deep dental cleaning will require two or three visits to your dentist’s office. Your dentist may perform a deep cleaning on one side of your mouth during the first visit and the other during the second visit. A third visit may be scheduled to check your progress.
What Are the Steps Involved in Deep Dental Cleaning?
When you arrive for deep dental cleaning, the hygienist will ensure your comfort and explain the process. You can expect the dentist or hygienist to:
- Administer a local anesthetic to numb your mouth
- Gently push your gum tissue back to expose the root area
- Perform scaling to remove the plaque and tartar buildup
- Perform root planing, where they smooth the roots of your teeth so they can easily reattach to your gums.
Are You Looking for a Dental Cleaning and Consultation in Farmington Hills?
If you are looking for a preventive dentist in Farmington Hills, consider Barone Family Dental. Please contact our office at (248) 855-1277, and we will happily answer all your questions.