Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical dental procedure beyond regular teeth cleaning. It involves thoroughly removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line and the surfaces of the tooth roots. Deep cleaning primarily aims to treat gum disease, which occurs when bacteria and plaque build-up along the gum line and below it, causing inflammation and infection. At Ivan K. Salmons DDS, a deep cleaning helps remove the bacteria and plaque from these areas, promoting gum health and preventing further progression of gum disease.
The Procedure for Deep Cleaning
Before the deep cleaning procedure, your dentist or dental hygienist will evaluate your oral health and assess the extent of gum disease. This may involve a comprehensive examination, probing of the gum pockets, and taking dental X-rays. A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the treated area to ensure your comfort during the procedure. This helps to minimize any potential discomfort or sensitivity.
The first step of deep cleaning is scaling, which involves the removal of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. The dentist or hygienist will use specialized dental instruments, such as scalers or ultrasonic devices, to gently scrape away the deposits and clean the teeth thoroughly.
After scaling, the next step is root planing. This process involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to remove any remaining bacteria, toxins, and debris. It helps to create a clean and smooth surface, allowing the gums to reattach to the teeth more effectively. An antimicrobial mouth may help reduce bacteria and promote healing in the treated areas following scaling and root planing.
The Benefits of Deep Cleaning
Gum Disease Treatment
Deep cleaning is an effective treatment for gum disease, particularly in its early to moderate stages. By removing the bacterial buildup and promoting gum healing, deep cleaning helps control and manage gum disease, preventing further damage to the gums and supporting structures.
Reduced Inflammation
A deep cleaning helps reduce gum inflammation, improve gum health, decrease bleeding, and less discomfort.
Prevention of Tooth Loss
Treating gum disease through deep cleaning can help prevent tooth loss. By removing the bacterial infection and supporting gum and bone health, deep cleaning can contribute to maintaining the stability and longevity of teeth.
Improved Oral Health
Deep cleaning promotes oral health by reducing the risk of gum disease-related complications, such as bad breath, gum recession, bone loss, and tooth mobility.
Professional cleanings are much more effective than at-home treatments in preventing gum disease and cavities. This is because our dentist will use high-powered tools to get a deeper clean than can be achieved with a toothbrush or floss. If it has been more than six months since your last cleaning, contact Ivan K. Salmons DDS, at 1855 Indian Hills Drive, Sioux City, IA 51104, or call (712) 239-5900 to schedule an appointment.
