If you think that deep cleaning is something you’re required to do after you’ve missed a few dental checkups or after a very sticky meal, you’d highly mistaken.
Deep cleaning is, in fact, a procedure that’s carried out by a professional dental hygienist for treating gum disease and other periodontal diseases.
It’s administered when bacteria are deeply embedded within the teeth and gums. This typically happens when people don’t get dental checkups bi-annually.
Why Is There a Need for Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleanings are recommended by dentists if a person shows symptoms of periodontal disease in a Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation (CPE).
According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), an individual must get this evaluation done every once in a year. It involves measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums.
These pockets are typically home to bacteria and are measured by dental hygienists using a dental tool called a probe. However, CPE is not just about measuring those pockets; it also determines whether or not a person requires any additional treatment.
When Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?
As suggested by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), people with pocket depths of three millimeters or less don’t require deep cleaning. However, those who have pocket depths of five millimeters or more are recommended to book dental appointments for deep scaling and root planing.
Understanding the Process of Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is popularly referred to as scaling and root planing in the dental world. Scaling includes gently scraping off plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, and cleaning any bacteria in the pockets between your teeth and gums, as explained by NIDCR.
Once the scaling is done, tartar and plaque are removed from the roots of your teeth. This process is called root planing. Both root planing and scaling can be done using electrical scaling tools or manual ones, depending on the choice of your dental hygienist and the severity of your dental problem.
Best Dental Hygienists for Deep Cleaning Your Teeth!
If you’re looking for a reliable dental treatment in Calabasas, get in touch with West Hills Smiles. We have the best team of professional dentists in Woodland Hills, CA, who will make sure you go back home with a big, white and vibrant smile. Call at (818) 346-4303 to book an appointment.