What is a Deep Dental Cleaning and Do You Need One?
Many people believe that a deep dental cleaning is the same thing as their twice-yearly dental exam and cleaning. In fact, they are different procedures altogether. Keep reading to find out what a deep cleaning is and why you may need one. Then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to schedule an appointment.
The Purpose of Deep Cleanings
It is common for a person who does not visit the dentist regularly to need a deep cleaning to treat or prevent gum disease. The deep cleaning clears out pockets of bacteria in the gums, which can help greatly improve gum health. As a first line of defense, a deep cleaning and can prevent the need for more costly periodontal treatments.
Deep Cleanings Can Treat Gingivitis
Every person has many different types of bacteria in their mouth. Without regular tooth brushing, that bacteria turns into plaque, which is a sticky substance that can harden into tartar. Once it has turned into tartar, only a dentist can remove it. While everyone will have some amount of tartar, those who do not brush regularly can experience excessive tartar. This leads to inflamed gums, otherwise known as gingivitis.
The bad news about gingivitis is that it is the first stage of gum disease. The good news about gingivitis is that it is generally entirely reversable if the patient starts brushing and flossing correctly and gets their regular cleanings. The best outcome comes when this renewed effort in home care follows a deep cleaning.
Deep Cleanings are One Treatment Option for Periodontitis
In the event gingivitis is not taken care of or found in time, it can turn into a more serious type of gum disease: Periodontitis. This involves inflamed gum tissue actually pulling away from the teeth, which results in pockets forming. As these pockets get deeper, more of the tooth is left exposed to bacteria. Over time, this can lead the permanent loss of bone.
Once periodontitis is found, the treatment will depend on how serious it is. If it is found early, then a deep cleaning and better at-home oral health care may be all that’s needed. If it is not treated, then the patient could eventually lose so much bone that their teeth fall out.
Take Action Before It Gets Worse
The most common reason that a person skips a deep cleaning, or even their regular dental checkups, is because they want to avoid the cost. This includes both the time investment in going to the dentist and the financial investment. While we understand this mindset, it is flawed – the longer you wait to go to the dentist, the more it will cost.
At California Dental Group we recommend you get treatment sooner rather than later. Deep cleaning is a relatively simple procedure that can have a big impact on your oral health. Call us now at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment.
