Welcome to our comprehensive guide on deep cleaning, a crucial dental procedure that goes beyond the typical cleaning to ensure optimal oral health. If you've been advised by your dentist to undergo a deep cleaning, you might have questions about what it entails, why it's necessary, and how it can benefit your dental health. In this blog, we'll get into everything you need to know about deep cleaning, from its purpose to the procedure itself, and how it can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

What is Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure aimed at treating gum disease and preventing its progression. Unlike regular cleanings that focus on the surfaces of your teeth, deep cleaning targets the areas below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

This procedure is essential when gum disease has caused pockets to form between your teeth and gums, trapping harmful bacteria. Key aspects of deep cleaning include:

  • Scaling: This involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline.
  • Root Planing: This process smooths out the roots of your teeth, helping gums reattach to the teeth and reducing pocket depth.

Why is Deep Cleaning Necessary?

Deep cleaning is only necessary if you have gum disease. It’s usually the first choice for treating minor-to-moderate cases of gum disease. Here are a few reasons why you should get a deep cleaning to protect your smile:

  • Preventing Tooth Loss: Advanced gum disease can cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. Deep cleaning helps prevent this by treating the infection.
  • Improving Oral Health: By removing harmful bacteria, deep cleaning reduces inflammation and promotes healthy gums.
  • Freshening Your Breath: Gum disease often causes persistent bad breath, which deep cleaning can help alleviate.

What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning Procedure

Understanding what happens during a deep cleaning can ease any anxiety you might have about the process. Typically, the procedure involves:

  • Anesthesia: To ensure comfort, local anesthesia may be used to numb the area being treated.
  • Scaling and Root Planing: Your dentist or hygienist will meticulously clean below the gumline and smooth the root surfaces.
  • Follow-Up Care: Post-procedure, you may be advised on specific oral hygiene practices to maintain the health of your gums.

Since deep cleaning is a relatively lengthy process, one half of your mouth will be cleaned during each visit at Swartout Dental to ensure your comfort. This means you’ll need two appointments to have your mouth fully cleaned.

Aftercare and Maintenance Tips

Once you've undergone a deep cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent gum disease from getting worse. Here are some aftercare tips:

  • Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to keep plaque at bay and keep gum disease under control.
  • Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Over-the-counter and prescription mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and promote gum health.
  • Get Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings: These are “mini” deep cleanings that help reduce oral bacteria levels and keep periodontal pockets from re-forming. You will usually need a periodontal cleaning every 3-4 months.

Schedule Your Deep Cleaning Appointment in Brownsburg, IN

If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to get a deep cleaning, don't wait any longer to take control of your oral health. At Swartout Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care to the Brownsburg, IN community. Contact us at (317) 852-3176 to schedule your deep cleaning appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier smile!

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