Deep Cleaning Vs Regular Cleaning Teeth
A bright, healthy smile is not only visually appealing but also crucial for maintaining overall oral health. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene and preventing dental issues relies heavily on proper dental care, which includes regular teeth cleaning. Regular teeth cleaning, also known as dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a fundamental procedure to eliminate plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. One can opt for two types of dental cleaning: regular cleaning or deep cleaning.
This article will explore the importance of teeth cleaning for maintaining a healthy smile and sort out the differences between deep cleaning and regular cleaning. It delves into key aspects of the procedure, from removing plaque and tartar to preventing gum disease and tooth decay through professional dental cleaning solutions. By shedding light on the differences between regular teeth cleaning and deep cleaning, we aim to emphasize their significance.
What is Deep Cleaning Teeth
We are usually more familiar with regular dental cleaning, hence, the question arises, what is deep cleaning? Deep cleaning, also known as Scaling and Root Planing, is an extensive procedure primarily used to treat periodontal disease (gum disease) or to clean a significant buildup of tartar and plaque below the gumline. It involves the following steps:- Scaling: It is performed to remove the plaque and tartar on your teeth, but deep cleaning conducts scaling beyond the visible surfaces of the teeth. The dentist reaches below the gumline to remove tartar from the tooth roots and the pockets between the teeth and gums.
- Root Planing: After scaling, the rough spots on the tooth roots are smoothed out. Root Planing helps eliminate bacteria and promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
Before and After Deep Cleaning
There are several noticeable changes in the oral health and appearance of a person’s teeth and gums before and after deep cleaning. Here are some common differences you may observe:- Reduction in Gum Inflammation: Before deep cleaning, a person’s gums may appear red, swollen, and tender due to plaque and tartar. After deep cleaning, there is a significant reduction in gum inflammation, and the gums appear healthier and less irritated.
- Improved Gum Attachment: Deep cleaning involves root planing, a process that smooths out rough spots on the tooth roots. This helps the gums reattach to the teeth more firmly, reducing the depth of periodontal pockets. After deep cleaning, the gums will likely fit more tightly around the teeth, providing better support and stability.
- Removal of Tartar and Stains: Deep cleaning effectively removes stubborn tartar and stains that have accumulated below the gumline and on the tooth surfaces.
- Fresher Breath: The bacteria present in plaque and tartar can contribute to bad breath. Deep cleaning eliminates the buildup of these bacteria, leading to fresher breath and improved oral odor.
- Improved Oral Health: Deep cleaning is primarily performed to address gum disease, which aims to halt the progress of the condition. After the procedure, the risk of further gum tissue damage and tooth loss is significantly reduced.
What Is Regular Teeth Cleaning
Compared to Deep cleaning, regular cleaning is a different type of dental procedure that focuses on maintaining oral health but differs in terms of their scope and purpose.Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
- Scaling: The dentist uses a handheld instrument or an ultrasonic scaler to effectively remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces.
- Polishing: Polishing involves using a rotating rubber cup or brush, along with an abrasive toothpaste, to create a smooth and stain-free surface on the teeth after scaling.
- Fluoride Treatment: During a dental cleaning, fluoride treatment may be offered to patients as an additional step to strengthen their tooth enamel.
Disadvantages of Deep Cleaning
However, deep cleaning also has certain disadvantages over regular cleaning. They are:- Sensitivity and Discomfort: Deep cleaning involves accessing and cleaning below the gumline, which can cause temporary sensitivity and discomfort.
- Anesthesia and Multiple Appointments: Deep cleaning can be time-consuming and may require local anesthesia.
- Cost: Deep cleaning is a more involved and intensive procedure compared to regular cleaning.
- Post-Treatment Maintenance: The long-term success of deep cleaning relies on diligent oral care post deep cleaning.
