Deep cleaning and regular cleaning are both essential components of dental hygiene. Understanding the distinctions between these two approaches can help you identify the right option for your specific dental needs.
Regular dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive measure that is usually performed every six months. A dental hygienist or your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth, polish the enamel, and provide oral hygiene instructions during routine cleaning.
Deep cleaning is a more intensive procedure usually recommended for people with gum disease symptoms like gum inflammation, deep gum pockets, and bone loss. Deep cleaning entails removing plaque and tartar from both the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. This procedure aids in the removal of bacteria and infection, the smoothing of rough root surfaces, and the promotion of gum healing.
Explain The Differences Between Deep Cleanings And Regular Cleanings, When Each Is Necessary, And The Benefits They Provide.
Deep cleanings and regular cleanings are two distinct dental procedures that serve different functions and address different oral health needs. Understanding the distinctions between these cleanings, when each is required, and the benefits they provide can assist you in maintaining optimal oral health.
Here are some of the essential components and advantages of regular cleanings:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: During a regular cleaning, your dentist uses some specialized tools to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth.
- Polishing: The teeth are polished after plaque and tartar removal to remove surface stains and create a smooth and shiny appearance. Polishing also aids in the prevention of plaque buildup.
- Oral Hygiene Instructions: During regular cleanings, oral hygiene instructions are typically provided, educating patients on proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommending oral care products. These instructions enable people to practice good oral hygiene at home.
- Regular cleanings are accompanied by dental examinations, allowing dentists to detect and address any early signs of dental problems, like cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, or bite irregularities.
Deep cleanings have the following characteristics and benefits:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal Below the Gumline: Deep cleanings involve the removal of the buildup of plaque and tartar not only from the tooth surfaces but also from below the gum line.
- Root Surface Smoothing: During deep cleanings, the rough surfaces of tooth roots are smoothed, which can harbour bacteria and contribute to gum disease. Smoothing the roots promotes gum healing and helps the gum tissue reattach.
- Gum Pocket Reduction: Deep cleanings aim to reduce the depth of gum pockets caused by gum disease. Deep cleanings can help the gum tissue reattach to the tooth and reduce pocket depth by removing bacteria and promoting healing.
- Stopping the Progression of Gum Disease: Deep cleanings are critical in managing and stopping the progression of gum disease. Deep cleanings provide a clean environment for gum healing and help prevent further gum and bone loss by removing bacteria and infection.
- Deep cleanings may be used as a preparatory step before other treatments, such as gum surgery or periodontal maintenance in more advanced cases of gum disease.
When Is A Regular Cleaning Or A Deep Cleaning Necessary?
The necessity of deep cleanings vs. regular cleanings is determined by the individual’s oral health condition. To determine the best treatment, your dentist in Morristown will look at things like gum inflammation, pocket depth, X-ray findings, and overall oral health. Here are some guidelines for each cleaning type:
Regular cleaning is necessary for the following:
- People who have healthy gums
- Plaque and tartar buildup are kept to a minimum.
- There are no signs of gum disease.
Deep cleaning is necessary if:
- Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) is present.
- Inflammation of the gums (red, swollen, or bleeding gums)
- Gum pockets that are 4mm or deeper
- X-rays can detect bone loss.
Benefits of Regular Cleaning and Deep cleaning at our Dental Care of Morristown
The benefits of regularly cleaning include:
- Tooth decay and gum disease prevention
- Getting rid of plaque and tartar buildup
- Dental problems are detected early.
- Polishing for a gleaming smile
- Education on good oral hygiene habits
The benefits of dental cleanings in Morristown, NJ, include:
- Bacterial and infection removal below the gumline
- Rough root surface smoothing
- Gum pocket reduction
- Stopping the spread of gum disease
- Improved gum healing and attachment