Everything You Need to Know About Deep Cleaning

When you hear the phrase “deep cleaning”, do you think about Smiles Nambour? Probably not. “Deep cleaning” doesn’t really sound like a dental treatment. However, a deep cleaning goes far beyond a “thorough cleaning” of your mouth or an intensified routine dental cleaning. This is hinted at by its dental name, a “dentl scaling and root planing.”

A deep cleaning may sound a bit intimidating, but what it really means is that tartar has collected below your gumline, creating pockets, which have become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Bacteria below the gumline means periodontal disease and in order for healing to take place, the tartar and bacteria need to be removed so that your gums can reattach to your teeth. If this process is successful inflammation and the risk of tooth loss are both reduced.

So, let’s take a deep dive in dental deep cleaning, what it is, and what it is for.

Why Is It Called A Deep Cleaning?

The official term for a deep cleaning is a periodontal scaling and root planning. But we simplify that to a “deep cleaning” because the procedure is for the removal of deposits from beneath the gums.

In fact, the whole point of the treatment is to get below the surface of the gums, into the pockets that can form between teeth and gums, and clean out deposits there, smoothing the teeth to allow reattachment of gums to teeth.

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What are the signs a deep cleaning or dental scaling is needed?

Because gum disease does not always come with obvious symptoms, it can be hard to tell when you need a deep cleaning, and normally the news comes from your dentist. However, there are some signs that may alert you before your dental appointment with Nambour dentist.

  • Increased redness of gums
  • Tender and puffy gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Gums that recede from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth

Other signs that a deep cleaning may be needed include pus where the teeth and gums connect and loose teeth. If your gums hurt when you brush or chew, it is possible that you have gum disease and need a deep cleaning.

Click here to know the best oral hygience tips from dentist in Nambour

How is Deep Cleaning Done?

Deep cleaning is typically performed with a mixture of ultrasonic instruments and handheld instruments.

Ultrasonic instruments have a high-frequency vibrating motion that removes the plaque. The instruments also releases water to help remove debris around the teeth and pockets in the gums.

Hand instruments are typically used to remove residual deposits on the tooth or in the gums.

If the condition of the gums is particularly bad, deep cleaning may be performed in quadrants. For gingivitis, or mild gum disease, the procedure may be finished in a single appointment.

Medications may be prescribed to support the procedure including antimicrobial mouth rinses, antiseptic chips, antibiotic gels and microspheres, enzyme suppressants, and oral drugs.

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Post Deep Cleaning Instructions

Most patients experience little to no discomfort after deep cleaning. Sometimes there is slight tenderness of the gums, teeth that are mildly sensitive to cold drinks and foods, and discomfort while eating spicy foods.

To avoid these problems:

  • Perform all home care procedures as prescribed by your dentist in Nambour or hygienist
  • Avoid really cold or hot liquids and foods for a few days or more after the scaling and root planning is performed
  • Avoid eating spicy foods for several days.
  • Take an over-the-counter analgesic before your local anesthesia wears off.
  • Rinse with warm salt water as frequently as you like. Stir 1/4 teaspoonful of table salt and 1/4 teaspoonful of baking soda into one cup of warm water to use as your rinse solution.

Will my deep cleaning hurt?

Depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, the scaling and root planning process can cause some discomfort or mild pain. The good news is that if you’re concerned about potential pain, your dentist can numb the area completely using injectable anesthetics or a topical anesthetic gel.

For people with even more anxiety, there is also the option of sleep dentistry. During the entire procedure, sleep dentistry leaves you in a deep slumber, feeling nothing that is happening in your mouth. With the help of anesthetics, the pain you’re afraid of feeling doesn’t really need to be such a big concern.

Dentistry at Smiles Nambour

Smiles Nambour is the perfect choice for dental care in the Nambour area. We provide top-notch dental services of all kinds to patients of every age! Our professional dentist in Nambour is dedicated to providing you with personalised, quality dental care.

Smiles Nambour offers a comprehensive array of general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services in Nambour for you and your loved ones.

A visit to Smiles Nambour is an investment in your dental health and attractive smile!

Call (07) 5441 4438 or visit us at Shop 4, 2-4 Ann street, Nambour QLD 4560.