Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, and professional cleanings play a significant role in achieving this goal. However, not all dental cleanings are the same. If you’ve heard terms like “deep cleaning” and “regular cleaning” but aren’t sure what they mean, this guide is for you.
At Periodontal Specialists, we’re committed to helping our patients in Kansas City understand their dental care options. Whether you’re searching for deep cleaning in Kansas City or wondering about a periodontist near me, here’s everything you need to know about these two types of dental cleanings.
What Is a Regular Cleaning?
A Regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a routine dental procedure designed to maintain oral health and prevent common issues like cavities and gum disease. Here’s what it involves:
1. Removal of Plaque and Tartar
A hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline.
2. Polishing
Teeth are polished to remove surface stains, leaving your smile brighter and smoother.
3. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
Fluoride may be applied to strengthen your teeth and protect against decay.
4. Frequency
Regular cleanings are typically recommended every six months for individuals with healthy gums and no significant dental issues.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure aimed at treating gum disease and preventing it from progressing. It targets plaque and tartar below the gumline, where regular cleanings can’t reach.
1. Scaling
The first step involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline.
2. Root Planing
Next, the tooth roots are smoothed to help gums reattach and reduce areas where bacteria can accumulate.
3. Purpose
Deep cleanings are typically recommended for patients with periodontal disease, characterized by symptoms like gum inflammation, bleeding, and deep pockets around the teeth.
Key Differences Between Deep Cleaning and Regular Cleaning
Let’s break it down:
1. Purpose
- Regular Cleaning: Preventative care to maintain oral health and stop problems before they start.
- Deep Cleaning: Corrective care to treat active gum disease and prevent its progression.
2. Areas Treated
- Regular Cleaning: Focuses on cleaning above the gumline and removing surface plaque and tartar.
- Deep Cleaning: Cleans both above and below the gumline, addressing bacteria and debris in periodontal pockets.
3. Frequency
- Regular Cleaning: Performed every six months for most patients.
- Deep Cleaning: Typically a one-time or periodic treatment, with follow-up maintenance as recommended.
4. Comfort Level
- Regular Cleaning: Generally painless and does not require anesthesia.
- Deep Cleaning: This may involve some discomfort and local anesthesia is often used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Why Deep Cleaning May Be Necessary
Here’s why it’s crucial:
1. Prevent Tooth Loss
Advanced gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to loosening or even tooth loss. Deep cleaning helps stop this process.
2. Reduce Inflammation
Scaling and root planing eliminate bacteria and toxins that cause gum inflammation, promoting healing.
3. Prevent Systemic Health Issues
Gum disease is linked to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Treating gum disease lowers these risks.If you’re noticing symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, it’s time to consult a periodontist near me to assess whether you need a deep cleaning.
Benefits of Regular and Deep Cleanings
Both types of cleaning offer valuable benefits:
- Benefits of Regular Cleaning
Prevents plaque and tartar buildupReduces the risk of cavitiesKeeps your gums healthyBrightens your smile
- Benefits of Deep Cleaning
Treats gum disease effectivelyStops gum recessionPromotes reattachment of gums to teethProtects against tooth lossYour dentist will recommend the best cleaning for you.
Maintaining Oral Health After a Deep Cleaning
Once you’ve undergone a deep cleaning, it’s important to follow a diligent oral care routine to prevent gum disease from returning. Here’s what you can do:
1. Brush and Floss Daily
Brush twice a day and floss once daily to keep plaque at bay.
2. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash
Rinse with a mouthwash designed to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
3. Schedule Periodontal Maintenance
Follow-up appointments with your dentist or periodontist may be needed every three to four months to monitor your gum health.
When to Seek Help
If you’re unsure whether you need a regular or deep cleaning, watch for these signs:
Healthy gums? Stick to regular cleanings. Swollen, bleeding gums? A deep cleaning might be necessary. At Periodontal Specialists, we’re here to guide you.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between regular and deep cleaning is essential for making informed decisions about your dental care. Regular cleanings focus on prevention, while deep cleanings address gum disease and its associated risks.
Contact Periodontal Specialists today and let us help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!
