Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Painful?
The progression of gum disease takes time. Initially, it can be easily treated. Once it becomes more advanced, though, deep teeth cleaning is required to remove plaque and tartar buildup—ensuring the health of the teeth and gums.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is inflammation and infection of the gums of a patient. Early on, gum disease is referred to as gingivitis. Later, more advanced stages of the disease are referred to as periodontitis. Once gum disease reaches the stage of periodontitis, it cannot be reversed.
Signs of Gum Disease
Some of the symptoms of gum disease include:
- bleeding gums
- inflammation
- bad breath
- pain when chewing
- tender gums
- gum recession
- loose teeth
- swollen gums
It’s extremely important to visit a dentist when you notice these symptoms. The earlier you stop gum disease, the better. You may also be able to avoid a deep cleaning. If you wait too long, a deep teeth cleaning will likely be required to address the disease and ensure your ongoing oral health.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
Deep teeth cleaning (also known as “deep cleaning” and “scaling and root planing”) is a procedure that involves the cleaning of teeth at and below the gum line (all the way to the root of the teeth). This involves the removal of tartar, plaque, and bacteria.
A deep cleaning procedure helps to ensure the safety of the teeth and gums, while also halting the progression of gum disease. If a deep cleaning is required but not performed, the patient may eventually experience bone loss, loose teeth, and even teeth falling out.
If your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, it’s important that you schedule one.
What Is the Deep Cleaning Process Like? Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Painful?
The process of a deep cleaning starts with a trip to the dentist. If you notice the symptoms listed above, you should schedule an appointment. Your dentist will also recognize gum disease during a checkup (if it is present). From there, an appointment for the procedure can be scheduled.
During the appointment, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. Because of this, the process is not very painful at all. With that said, you may experience pressure and some discomfort.
The dentist will then clean at and below the gum line with special tools. Once the procedure is complete, you won’t have tartar, plaque, or bacteria below the gumline. With that said, the bacteria and tartar can come back if the teeth and gums aren’t properly cared for. Make sure you brush, floss, and rinse every day. Also, visit your dentist regularly for a cleaning and checkup every six months.
Schedule an Appointment
If you notice symptoms of gum disease, schedule an appointment for an examination. If you simply haven’t been to the dentist in a while, make sure you schedule a cleaning and checkup. This will help you to avoid the need for a deep teeth cleaning procedure.