Can a Deep Dental Cleaning Treat Gum Disease?

Deep Dental Cleaning Quincy, MA

Deep dental cleaning is a way to treat severe cases of gum disease. However, it is not always necessary for all cases of gum disease. By understanding when and why a dentist recommends a deep dental cleaning, you can feel more comfortable throughout the consultation and treatment process. 

A review of deep dental cleaning for gum disease treatment

Every dentist utilizes deep dental cleaning differently and may have their own process for performing their procedure. However, there are commonalities to become familiar with. The following is a complete review of deep dental cleaning to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. 

What is a deep dental cleaning?

A deep dental cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a relatively common in-office dental procedure that involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. Regular dental cleaning does not clean below the gum line, but rather only the surface of teeth and along the gum line. A deep dental cleaning is a method of treating a severe type of gum disease known as periodontitis. The procedure can be performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist. 

How does a deep dental cleaning work?

A numbing agent is typically applied before a deep dental cleaning. This is to ensure that the procedure does not cause excessive discomfort. The dental professional then scrapes away the plaque and tartar on the surface of teeth and below the gum line. This should not cause much discomfort, although the patient may feel vibrations on their teeth. The processing of removing the plaque and tartar beneath the gum line is known as “scaling.” The last step is “root planing,” which involves smoothing the tooth roots to allow the gums to reattach. 

When does a dentist recommend a deep dental cleaning?

Dentists recommend a deep dental cleaning for progressive and more severe cases of gum disease. There are two main types of gum disease, which are gingivitis and periodontitis. Although both are concerning, generally, only periodontitis requires a deep dental cleaning. Specifically, the dentist looks for the depth of gum pockets and bone loss in the jaw. If the gum pockets are 4 millimeters or greater, then a deep dental cleaning is likely necessary. 

How can I prevent gum disease in the long term?

A deep dental cleaning can address periodontitis, but it is important to practice good oral hygiene to prevent the need for additional deep cleanings in the future. Most notably, be sure to brush, floss and use mouthwash as directed, along with visiting the dentist for a check-ups and regular dental cleanings once every four to six months. Limiting the intake of foods and drinks that are high in sugar and other carbohydrates is also encouraged. 

Talk to our practice and learn more about deep dental cleaning

Deep dental cleaning is often necessary to treat periodontitis and prevent larger issues such as severe bone loss and tooth loss. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, then contact our team by phone or email today to schedule a convenient time for a visit.

Request an appointment here: https://quincydentist.com or call JF Dental at (617) 657-2900 for an appointment in our Quincy office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Deep Dental Cleaning in Quincy, MA.

Related Posts

Digital Dentistry- Ways Technology Is Improving Dentistry

Digital dentistry uses various dental devices or technologies. Every aspect of this field has digital parts. Digital dentistry removes the manual processes of dental treatments. When people do things by hand in a dental clinic, more errors and delays happen. Dental care has come a long way with this technological leap. If you want to…

Consult A Cosmetic Dentist About Veneers

Dental veneers from a cosmetic dentist help patients achieve a more uniform smile. These wafer-thin shells fit over the fronts of the teeth, improving their appearance for years to come. If you have been considering veneers, here are some common signs that it is time to consult a cosmetic dentist.Perhaps the most well-known reason people…

How Can A Cosmetic Dentist Enhance Your Smile?

A beautiful smile can be a powerful asset. It can affect first impressions, social interactions, and even your self-esteem. A cosmetic dentist improves the look of teeth and provides solutions to turn ordinary smiles into extraordinary ones. The treatment options typically depend on your preferences and needs.Patients looking to transform their smiles can book an…

Cosmetic Dentist Uses Dental Bonding To Reshape Teeth

Your cosmetic dentist can reshape your teeth to improve your dental health and appearance. This can even enhance your general health. Bonding material allows the dentist to provide you with a better dental shape. Here are the details on how a cosmetic dentist can reshape your teeth with dental bonding.A chipped edge and dental staining…