Teeth cleanings involve the removal of plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film consisting of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. Plaque builds up on your teeth throughout the day and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Tartar is plaque that hardens on your teeth. It cannot be removed with regular brushing and must be scraped away during a dental cleaning.

What Is a Deep Cleaning or Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)?

When bacteria gather in pockets around the roots of your teeth, you may experience complications such as bleeding gums, gum recession, and even tooth loss. Once our dentist determines that you have gum disease, they will recommend a treatment plan that may include deep cleanings. The dentist will numb your gums before performing the procedure.

Then, the dentist or dental hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler to gently remove the plaque buildup above and below your gum line. The dentist will then use a tool called a curette to smooth the root surfaces of your teeth to prevent future buildup of calculus. Once your teeth are clean and smooth, our dentist may prescribe an antibiotic mouth rinse to apply at home to kill any remaining harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Aftercare

After a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing procedure, you should continue to maintain excellent oral hygiene practices to prevent the return of gingivitis. Daily brushing and flossing are a must! You should also have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy. At-home oral care is essential for preventing not only gingivitis but also tooth decay and cavities.

What Are the Benefits of Deep Cleanings?

The dentist or dental hygienist will use professional tools to clean your teeth, including electric toothbrushes and handheld instruments that clean beneath the gum line or between teeth. This type of cleaning is the most effective way to remove plaque that leads to tooth decay and gum disease.

Deep cleanings can stop the progression of gum disease, prevent periodontitis, and protect your roots and jawbone.

If you currently have an infection in your gums, a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing procedure can help eliminate the infection and restore the health of your gums. 

Deep cleanings also help treat bad breath and help your teeth look and feel clean and healthy. 

How Effective Is a Deep Cleaning?

A deep cleaning or scaling and root planing (SRP) procedure might not be appropriate for every patient. It’s typically recommended to patients with gum disease as it is one of the most effective ways to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and below the gum line and allow the gum tissue to regenerate. 

Deep cleanings are effective in stopping the progression of gum disease and protecting your tooth roots and jawbone. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (714) 635-5500 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 50 S Anaheim Blvd Ste. 94, Anaheim, CA 92805.