Regular cleaning is done to maintain the cleanliness of the teeth to prevent cavities and keep off gum diseases. The tartar removed has not quite invaded the gums and is removed using a scaler. However, when tartar build-up becomes too much, it can only be removed through deep dentist teeth cleaning.
A deep cleaning goes beyond the tooth’s surface to remove calculus and debris that accumulates in the roots of the teeth. The sessions are quite demanding and sometimes require more than a single visit, unlike regular cleaning (which takes about 30min .) Root planning is only done during deep dental cleaning and not when doing regular cleaning. It is, hence, a significant differentiator between the two types. The technician uses a special tool to clean deep into the pockets to ensure that tartar and plaque are completely removed to discourage bacteria.
- Regular cleaning focuses on cleaning the visible tooth surfaces and the area just below the gumline.
- Deep cleaning goes beyond and targets the hard-to-reach areas below the gumline and along the roots of the teeth.
- Regular cleaning polishes your teeth, and a deep cleaning removes the bacteria colonies from your mouth.
- Regular cleaning is a routine preventive dental cleaning, while deep cleaning is therapeutic, addressing existing issues like gum disease and preventing further complications.
- Regular cleaning is typically recommended every six months for individuals with healthy gums and teeth as part of routine preventive care.
Is Deep Cleaning Teeth Necessary?
As has been emphasized, deep teeth cleaning is necessary to prevent bacteria’s growth in the roots and pockets of the teeth. When bacteria growth is unchecked, it can cause permanent damage and lead to teeth loss. Here are the reasons and instances when deep dental cleaning is necessary.
• When you experience symptoms associated with gum disease and infections, such as redness and swelling of the gum line, bleeding during brushing, unending lousy breath, loosening of the teeth from the gums, and pus in the gum area.
• When you visit a hygienist, and he/she recommends deep teeth cleaning.
• When you are unable to remove stubborn tartar from the surface of your teeth, the chances are that they have hardened and need to be deep-scaled.
• If you have already had gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
• As part of the yearly routine dental health procedures.
• If you have not had regular cleaning sessions with your hygienist in a long time (more than six months)
• When the gum pockets enlarge beyond 5 millimeters depth, you may be at risk of periodontal disease, hence the need or deep dental cleaning.