The Difference Between Regular And Deep Dental Cleaning

Using the latest dental cleaning tools and following the best cleaning practices, Dr. Korol Dental in Calgary offers both regular and deep dental cleanings. Connect with us to learn more about how we can keep your teeth pristine from top to bottom and keep gum diseases at bay!

When To Go For A Regular Dental Cleaning 

“Regular” does not mean “not thorough”. In fact, getting your teeth cleaned twice a year, paired with daily brushing and flossing, usually guarantees that you will never need to go through a deep dental cleaning. 

Think of a regular dental cleaning as a maintenance routine for your teeth. By scaling and polishing your teeth above the gum line, your dental hygienist can eliminate most of the accumulated plaque and tartar. The regular removal of stains and bacteria not only ensures a dazzling smile, but it also reduces the risks of cavities and gum diseases. 

Regular dental cleanings are part of basic oral health and are recommended for all一regardless of how white and healthy their teeth are. 

When To Go For A Deep Dental Cleaning 

Whereas regular dental cleanings prevent gum diseases, deep dental cleanings aim to treat them. If a dentist ever recommends that you go through deep dental cleaning, chances are your gums have already become infected. 

Gum infections occur when tartar has accumulated around the root of the teeth, deep below the gum line一where neither toothbrush nor floss can reach. If left untreated, gum disease can damage the structure that supports your teeth and cause them to fall out. 

Deep dental cleaning entails scaling the teeth below the gum line with the help of an ultrasonic device. Root planing, a rubbing process to remove rough spots on the roots of the teeth, completes the procedure. 

Does Deep Dental Cleaning Hurt? 

The feeling of a sharp tool picking the roots of your teeth is far from pleasant. However, the procedure is not supposed to hurt. For added comfort, most dental hygienists administer local anesthetic in order to blunt any sensation altogether. 

Sedation is also an option for deep dental cleaning. Laughing gas and certain oral medications can induce the patient into a state of calmness prior to the cleaning. While the patient will be conscious the whole time, they will likely doze through the procedure.  

Recovering From Deep Dental Cleaning

Unlike a regular dental cleaning, a deep dental cleaning requires a minimum of 2 visits as well as a follow-up appointment to ensure your gums are healing from the treatment. 

After a deep dental cleaning, it is normal for your gums to feel sore for the next few days. Your jaw may also feel stiff in the meantime. 

To expedite the healing process, you should: 

• Rinse your mouth 3 times a day to reduce the risk of infection
• Avoid eating hard food during your recovery 
• Do not smoke or use tobacco products for 72 hours after your treatment
• Maintain daily brushing and flossing  
• Use a sensitivity toothpaste

Which Type Of Dental Cleaning Is For You? 

A regular dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gum line, whereas a deep dental cleaning looks for bacteria deep below the gum line. 

Deep dental cleaning may be necessary if you are suffering from gum disease. Rooting out the bacteria at the base of your teeth is an effective way to prevent it from spreading to the rest of your jaw. Deep dental cleanings can be avoided if you take good care of your oral hygiene一including visiting your dentist for regular dental cleanings! 

At Dr. Korol Dental in Calgary, we have the skill and experience to perform both types of dental cleaning. Call us at 403-245-9099 or fill out the online contact form to book a consultation about your oral health. 

FAQs

Q: Are deep dental cleanings covered by insurance?
A: An insurance provider that covers regular dental cleanings does not always cover deep dental cleanings. Call your insurance provider to confirm.

Q: What happens if I do not get my teeth cleaned?
A: If you do not get your teeth cleaned, tartar has a higher chance to build up between your teeth. The bacteria in the tartar can damage your gums, which leads to gum infections. These in turn can erode the bones that support the teeth, resulting in tooth loss. 

Q: How can I know If I need deep dental cleaning?
A: Talk to a dentist about deep dental cleaning if you are experiencing:

• Red and swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Jaw pain 
• Tooth pain 
• Constant bad breath