Spring is (hopefully) right around the corner. We’ve all been cooped up in our homes for what feels like forever. If you’re anything like me, you’re more than ready to give your home a deep clean and go outside without half a dozen layers and a puffer jacket.
While you’re clearing out your home, why not give a thought to scheduling a deep clean for your teeth as well? Over 46% of Americans delayed dental cleanings and checkups in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, more plaque and tartar may have built up on your teeth than usual. It might have begun to penetrate your gum line.
Here at Advanced Dentistry in Midtown Manhattan, Jessica Pandich, DDS, offers deep dental cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your teeth, both above and below your gum line.
What is a dental deep cleaning?
Combining scaling and root planing, a dental deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below your gum line. It’s a critical treatment to prevent and reverse gum disease — a leading cause of adult tooth loss.
This nonsurgical treatment not only removes bacteria and plaque but also smooths the surfaces of your teeth, eliminating microscopic pockets where bacteria can hide.
Why would I need a dental deep cleaning?
Dental deep cleanings aren’t necessary for every patient. However, if we find signs of gum disease or evidence that your gums are pulling away from your teeth during a routine exam, a deep cleaning is often our first step to treat and prevent gum disease.
What happens during a dental deep cleaning?
Dr. Pandich begins with a thorough exam of your teeth and gums before starting a dental deep cleaning. In most cases, you need to make two visits to complete the process, depending on the level of inflammation in your gums.
Dr. Pandich provides a local anesthetic to your gums to ensure your comfort during the procedure. She uses special instruments to carefully clean beneath your gums.
After your dental deep cleaning, Dr. Pandich applies a special oral antibiotic to the treated areas. This not only kills off any remaining bacteria but also prevents infection in your gums. Finally, you schedule a follow-up visit for Dr. Pandich to check that the dental deep cleaning helps reverse the development of gum disease.
Does a dental deep cleaning hurt?
We provide local anesthetics to help you stay comfortable during a dental deep cleaning. Your gums might be tender for a few days following your treatment. We provide personalized aftercare instructions to minimize your discomfort and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
How can I avoid needing a dental deep cleaning?
You can keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce your chances of needing a dental deep cleaning by practicing excellent dental hygiene at home. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day.
Some people are genetically inclined to have trouble with their gums. Having routine dental checkups and professional cleanings allows us to keep an eye on your dental health and provide treatment at the earliest signs of trouble. Our goal is to keep your mouth healthy and prevent decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Call our office today or make an appointment online to schedule your next dental checkup or deep cleaning today.