You brush, you floss, and you even make your appointments for a regular dental cleaning. But what happens if your dentist tells you that a “regular” cleaning (prophylaxis) isn’t enough, and you need a deep cleaning?
At Polaris Dental, we want our patients to understand exactly what that means and why it is crucial for your long-term health.
Standard Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning: What’s the Difference?
-
Standard Cleaning (Prophylaxis): This is preventative. It focuses on cleaning the surfaces of your teeth and just slightly below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar.
-
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): This is therapeutic. It is necessary when bacteria have moved deep below the gum line, creating pockets between your teeth and gums, and causing infection in the bone.
4 Warning Signs You Need a Deep Cleaning
Because gum disease is often painless in the early stages, you might not realize you have a problem. Keep an eye out for these signs:
-
Persistent Bad Breath: Bacteria buildup produces odors that brushing cannot eliminate.
-
Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, they are inflamed and infected.
-
Receding Gums: Your teeth may appear longer, or you may notice gaps forming between your gums and teeth.
-
Loose Teeth: This is a sign of advanced bone loss due to untreated gum disease.
What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning involves two steps: Scaling (removing tartar and plaque from the tooth surface and deep within the pockets) and Root Planing (smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth).
We understand that this sounds intimidating, but at Polaris Dental, we prioritize your comfort. We use gentle techniques and can provide numbing agents to ensure the experience is comfortable and anxiety-free.
Invest in Your Gum Health
Untreated gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By performing a deep cleaning, we can stop the progression of the disease and restore your gum health.
Worried about your gum health? Our expert team specializes in gentle, effective periodontal care. Schedule a Consultation with Polaris Dental today to protect your smile.