If you are at risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease, it is typically best to have scaling and root planing (or deep cleaning). There are as many as 64 million adults in the U.S. who are suffering from gum disease, so the need for deep dental cleaning is not rare. However, it is wise to address gum disease quickly since it is preventable and treatable with professional scaling and root planing. Silver Smile Dental offers deep cleaning as part of our preventative and restorative services.
Why Do I Need A Deep Cleaning?
Gum tissues that are healthy adhere closely to teeth. Healthy gums should have pockets that only have a maximum depth of 3 millimeters. Any depth deeper than this allows for bacteria to grow beneath the gum line. If this occurs, gum tissues that support teeth become infected where plaque and tartar form. Advancing signs of gum disease are evident by:
- Continuous bad breath
- Thick tartar accumulation (especially near the gum line)
- Inflamed gums
- Dark colored gum tissues
In most cases, improper or irregular brushing and flossing may lead to gum disease. Another factor is avoiding or having sporadic professional dental cleanings. Women who are pregnant are also at high risk of developing gum disease due to hormonal imbalances.
Dr. Silverina Chua uses deep cleanings as a first step in treating gum disease and preventing its further spread.
Deep Cleaning Versus Regular Cleaning
Whereas regular cleaning focuses on the teeth surface and the portions of the teeth right above the gum line, scaling and root planing goes beneath the gum line. Deep cleaning removes debris, bacteria, or any unwanted particles that collect under the gum line. This cleaning is important because bacteria growing under the gum line is not easily removable by regular brushing and flossing. Advanced stages of gum disease will lead to eventual bone loss within the jaw.