If you have been advised that you require a deep cleaning, you may be wondering how a deep cleaning differs from a regular cleaning, as well as if your teeth will feel better afterward. At a Downtown Calgary Dentist, we are frequently asked by patients about the outcome of the treatment. Knowing the difference between deep cleaning and regular cleaning is important to a patient, knowing what to expect and why it is an important step in their oral health. The following guide will explain what a deep cleaning entails and how your teeth might feel after the cleaning.
What is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning (also known as scaling and root planing) is a treatment to remove plaque or tartar from under the gum line. A regular cleaning only removes the type of plaque and tartar located on the visible surfaces of your teeth. A deep cleaning goes deeper, beyond the visible surfaces of your teeth, to areas your brush and floss cannot clean. A dental clinic near you in Downtown Calgary will often recommend a deep cleaning when gum health requires additional attention.
- Scaling: This removes tartar buildup above and below the gumline.
- Root planing: This smooths the roots of your teeth and allows the gums to reattach and heal.
This is useful for gum disease, bleeding gums, and pockets around the teeth.
How Is Deep Cleaning Different from Regular Cleaning?
When looking at the results of a deep cleaning vs regular cleaning, here’s what you need to know:
Regular Cleaning | Deep Cleaning |
Focuses on cleaning above the gumline | Cleans both above and below the gumline |
Prevents cavities, freshens breath, and maintains overall health | Treats gum disease, reduces gum inflammation, and prevents further bone loss |
Typically done every 6 months | Often needed when signs of gum disease appear |
Do Teeth Feel Better After Deep Cleaning?
Yes, the majority of patients find that their teeth and gums feel healthier after a deep cleaning. The outcome depends on the health of your gums and mouth, but this is what you may feel:
- Less Gum Sensitivity: Gums feel less sensitive as the infection subsides.
- Reduced Bleeding: Brushing and flossing become easier with less bleeding.
- Stronger Bite: When the gums heal and reattach to the teeth, your bite feels firmer.
- Fresh Breath: Bacteria and tartar removal dramatically enhance breath.
Individuals can experience temporary sensitivity or slight soreness immediately after treatment, but this typically improves in a few days. Your mouth feels fresher and cleaner over time compared to normal cleaning.
What Can You Expect After a Deep Cleaning?
Following a deep cleaning, the following can be expected:
- Mild tenderness of the gums for a couple of days.
- Teeth are cleaner and smoother.
- Gums are slowly constricting around teeth.
- Brushing and flossing are easier with less pain.
Your dentist might recommend follow-up appointments to examine healing and make sure the gums are recovering.
How Can You Maintain the Results of a Deep Cleaning?
Follow these tips to maintain your mouth health after receiving a deep cleaning:
- Brush your teeth at least twice every day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Use gentle flossing techniques to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended.
- Schedule dentist visits for regular checkups every 3-6 months.
Following these habits can help you reduce gum disease from coming back and keep your teeth strong and feeling strong.
A Healthier Smile is Possible at Terra Dental Care
A deep cleaning can improve your overall feeling of your teeth and gums if you have a lot of gum issues. Over time, you can expect to see less sensitivity, less bad breath, and finally a strong bite. Terra Dental Care is able to help you keep your smile healthy with personalized treatment and a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Don’t wait until your gum problems are worse; start on your journey toward a healthier smile today. Schedule your appointment at Terra Dental Care and see for yourself how refreshing and comfortable deep cleaning can be for your oral health.
