What To Expect After A Deep Teeth Cleaning

Gingivitis

The first part of gum disease comes in the form of inflamed, red, and sensitive gums known as gingivitis. This is a stepping stone for periodontitis and advanced periodontitis, which can lead to the destruction of tissue and ligaments securing teeth to the jawbone. Should these crucial elements weaken or get completely destroyed, a patient is more likely to lose teeth. The bacteria in plaque cause this deterioration by emitting toxins into the nearby gums. A dentist only needs to remove the plaque to stop gum disease and eradicate the disease.

Maintaining Good Health

A dental deep cleaning can reach places a toothbrush and floss cannot, ensuring a thorough cleaning of deep teeth. A patient can receive a deep cleaning simply as a preventative measure and to keep up with good oral hygiene. Patients can always bring gum problems to the attention of a dentist to see if a deep cleaning is necessary.

The Deep Cleaning Procedure

The deep cleaning procedure involves several key steps to ensure a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums:

1. Removing Plaque: The dentist or hygienist will start by removing plaque from areas of the teeth below the gum line.
2. Reducing Gum Pockets: The procedure aims to reduce the gap between the teeth and gums caused by gum disease.
3. Local Anesthetic: To ensure comfort, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. This can be in the form of a gel or an injection.
4. Scaling: A small dental tool is used to remove tartar from below the gum line.
5. Ultrasonic Device: An ultrasonic device may be used to dislodge plaque and tartar in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a comprehensive clean.

This deep cleaning procedure is crucial for stopping gum disease in its tracks and promoting healthier gums and teeth.

After The Procedure

Patients who have suffered from gum disease symptoms can expect improvement in teeth and gum health in the weeks following the procedure, especially with the use of local anesthesia to manage discomfort. Following at-home care procedures indicated by the dentist helps ensure a smoother recovery.

The Healing Process

After the procedure, inflammation should go down and gums should return to their natural pink color, no longer red. Teeth and gums may be overly sensitive a few days afterward, but this should fade with time. If tenderness is causing discomfort, patients should eat softer, mushier foods and avoid hot and cold foods until the sensitivity has passed.

Managing Discomfort and Sensitivity

While the deep cleaning procedure itself is made comfortable with the use of local anesthetic, some discomfort and sensitivity can be expected afterward. Your gums may feel sore and swollen, and your teeth might be sensitive for a few days. This is a normal part of the healing process. To manage this discomfort, wait at least 24 hours before brushing and flossing your teeth. When you do resume brushing

At-Home Care

Along with minor changes in diet until the mouth has adjusted, patients should brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Using a toothbrush with softer bristles can ease achiness in tender areas. Press gently in spots that are sore. A dentist may advise rinsing with warm salt water to prevent infection as the mouth heals.

More Appointments

Dentists usually ask patients back for a follow-up appointment several weeks after the dental deep cleaning to make sure everything is healing properly. Patients who have shown signs of gum disease should visit the dentist more often for cleanings to prevent plaque buildup.

Conclusion

The steps patients must take to care for their teeth after a deep cleaning is nothing compared to getting gum disease. Taking preventative steps now saves many patients from pain and oral health problems down the road.