Oral health plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being, and regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums in great shape. However, even with routine brushing and flossing, some individuals may require a deep cleaning procedure, also known as scaling and root planing, to address underlying gum health issues. Deep cleaning goes beyond standard cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline. Here are seven signs that you may need a deep cleaning to restore your oral health.
1. Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)
If you’re experiencing chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing, flossing, or mouthwash, it could be a sign of gum disease. Bacteria trapped below the gumline can produce foul odors, and standard cleaning may not reach these areas. Deep cleaning removes the bacteria and tartar causing bad breath, leaving your mouth fresher and healthier.
2. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing often indicate gum inflammation, which is an early sign of gingivitis or periodontitis. While occasional bleeding might result from brushing too hard, consistent bleeding could signal that plaque and tartar have accumulated below the gumline. A deep teeth cleaning can help remove these irritants and prevent further gum damage.
3. Receding Gums
Do your teeth appear longer than usual? This could be due to receding gums, which occur when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing the tooth roots. Receding gums are often a result of periodontal disease, which can weaken the structures supporting your teeth. Deep cleaning addresses this issue by eliminating harmful bacteria and promoting gum reattachment.
4. Tartar Buildup
While plaque can be removed through regular brushing and flossing, tartar is hardened plaque that requires professional intervention. If you notice yellow or brown deposits on your teeth, especially near the gumline, it’s a clear sign that you may need a deep cleaning. Tartar buildup can harbor bacteria and exacerbate gum inflammation.
5. Swollen or Tender Gums
Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink. If your gums are red, swollen, or tender, it’s a strong indicator of gum disease. This inflammation is often caused by bacterial infection below the gumline. Deep cleaning helps reduce gum inflammation by thoroughly cleaning these hard-to-reach areas.
6. Loose Teeth
Teeth should feel secure in their sockets. If you notice any looseness, it could be a sign that gum disease has progressed to a more severe stage, weakening the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth. Deep cleaning can help stabilize your teeth by removing bacteria that contribute to bone loss and gum recession.
7. Gum Pockets Deeper Than 4 Millimeters
During a dental checkup, your dentist or hygienist measures the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Healthy gum pockets typically measure 1-3 millimeters. Pockets deeper than 4 millimeters indicate the presence of gum disease and may require a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from these spaces, preventing further damage.
Why Deep Cleaning is Essential
Deep cleaning is more than just a cosmetic procedure. It’s a crucial treatment for preventing and managing periodontal disease, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. By addressing gum inflammation and removing harmful bacteria, deep cleaning helps
- Prevent tooth loss
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
- Improve overall oral health
- Minimize the risk of systemic health issues linked to gum disease such as heart diseases, diabetes and respiratory infections.
What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning typically involves two main steps scaling and root planing.
Scaling: This process removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, including below the gumline.
Root Planing: This step smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and eliminate areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Your dentist may perform the procedure in multiple visits and may use a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or soreness, but this typically subsides within a few days.
When to See Your Dentist
If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent minor gum issues from progressing to more severe periodontal disease. Here at Go Dental clinics, our specialist dentist will assess your oral health and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact us today at 800777000 to book an appointment with expert dentists in Dubai.
