How Often Does a Dentist Recommend an Adult Get a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning is an extensive version of conventional teeth cleanings. The American Dental Association recommends getting teeth cleaning at least two times per year, but deep cleanings are typically performed as needed.
For example, a person who has not had their teeth cleaned by a dentist in years might be advised to get a deep cleaning. A dentist might also recommend it when they detect signs of gum disease, like receding gums.
What to expect when getting deep teeth cleaning
A conventional teeth cleaning is performed to remove plaque and tartar deposits on teeth surfaces and interdental spaces. It serves as a preventative measure that protects patients against tooth decay and gum disease, the two most common reasons that people seek dental care.
Oral bacteria convert food particles left on teeth into plaque and acids that damage teeth. Plaque is responsible for the sticky feeling that one has in their mouth after getting up in the morning or after a nap. It contains bacteria and acids.
Plaque can lead to tooth decay, but it can easily be removed from the teeth's surfaces by brushing and flossing. However, plaque calcifies and changes into tartar when left on teeth for more than a day. Tartar gives teeth a yellow color and contains bacteria and the acids that they make. Brushing and flossing cannot get rid of tartar due to how hard it is. A dentist can remove it during teeth cleaning with a scaler.
Tartar build-up typically starts on teeth surfaces, accumulating mostly at their base. Eventually, the deposits start building up on teeth roots and gum pockets, leading to gum disease. People who have not cleaned their teeth in years often need deep teeth cleaning to remove tartar deposits below the gumline.
The process
Deep cleaning teeth involves removing tartar from teeth and their roots. The roots of the patient’s teeth are also polished to make it harder for tartar deposits to form. The process is often broken down into multiple segments to make recovery easier for the patient. Anesthetics are used as needed.
The patient’s gum pockets are also cleaned during the process, helping prevent and treat gum disease. Signs that a patient might need deep teeth cleaning include:
- Receding gums
- Inflamed gums
- Pus coming from the gums or base of teeth
- Bruised gum tissues
- Gums that bleed when touched
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
After the procedure, patients will experience a bit of soreness and discomfort, which typically goes away in a few days. They should avoid hot and spicy foods, which can irritate tender gum tissues after deep cleaning. They should also avoid brushing around the area. A saltwater rinse can be used to clean the mouth after meals to maintain oral hygiene.
Explore deep cleaning
Deep cleaning treatments can reverse the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis) and help prevent periodontitis from becoming unmanageable. Have you missed a few teeth cleanings? Call or visit our Fort Lauderdale clinic to find out if you are due for a deep teeth cleaning.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbyjulia.com or call Smiles By Julia at (954) 493-6556 for an appointment in our Fort Lauderdale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
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