Dentists have extensive experience cleaning and restoring our teeth and gums. Some of the most common treatments dentists and their hygienists perform are teeth cleanings. There are two types of teeth cleaning treatments, regular and deep. Keep reading to learn more about teeth cleanings and the difference between the two types!
Regular vs Deep Teeth Cleaning
Regular teeth cleanings are for patients ages 2 and up with generally great oral health and minimal dental issues. Generally, professional teeth cleanings are recommended twice a year along with a biannual dental exam. These thorough cleanings remove any plaque or tartar buildup located throughout the mouth. Special care is taken to clean places that are hard for patients to reach with a toothbrush, such as the molars. In contrast, deep cleanings are geared towards patients with more complex dental issues, such as gum disease or excessive amounts of plaque and tartar buildup. In these instances, more frequent cleanings might be recommended to get a patient’s oral health back on track.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning goes beyond a regular cleaning and removes plaque and tartar down to the roots. Typically much of the build up can be hidden below the gum line. Dentists use a technique called scaling and root planing. Scaling is the first step of a deep cleaning. An ultrasonic device is used to scrape away and remove plaque and tartar buildup, at and below the gumline. Root planing is the second step. Here your dentist will recontour and massage the gums to help promote gum regrowth and reattachment to the teeth. Arestin, an antibiotic that fights gum disease, might also be used in a deep cleaning to promote gum health.
How Do I Know If I Need a Deep Cleaning?
Wondering if you need a deep cleaning? If you have a relatively healthy smile, you likely will not require a deep cleaning. However, deep cleanings are useful for patients who are suffering from gum disease. Additionally, patients may need a deep cleaning if, for whatever reason, they have neglected their oral health.
Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning!
It’s important to visit Prairie Dental Group at least twice a year to maintain a healthy smile. These visits not only keep your teeth nice and clean, they also allow us to catch any potential problems in the early stages. This saves you time and money in the long run. Overdue for a cleaning? We can help! Our team in Eden Prairie, MN, performs both regular and deep cleanings to accommodate each patient’s unique dental needs. Please contact us to schedule your cleaning!
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