When was the last time you got a dental cleaning? Regular dental visits are an essential part of maintaining not just your smile, but your overall oral health. At Parsa Dental in Sun Valley, CA, we believe that understanding your dental care options empowers you to make the best decisions for your health. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or wondering if a deep cleaning might be necessary, we’re here to guide you through the differences and ensure your smile stays strong and healthy.
What Is a Regular Dental Cleaning?
A regular dental cleaning, also called prophylaxis, focuses on preventive care to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. During this procedure, our dental hygienists carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline. This helps reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
What Happens During a Regular Cleaning?
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: The dental team uses specialized instruments to carefully scrape away the hardened deposits that brushing and flossing can’t fully eliminate. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Polishing: After the tartar is removed, your teeth are polished to give them a smooth finish and remove any surface stains. This leaves your teeth looking brighter and feeling clean, and it helps prevent plaque from adhering to the tooth surface for a longer period of time.
- Oral Examination: In addition to cleaning your teeth, the dentist will perform a thorough examination to check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues.
Regular cleanings are typically recommended every six months and are ideal for individuals with healthy gums and minimal plaque buildup.
What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
On the other hand, a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure designed to treat gum disease and prevent its progression. This treatment targets bacteria and tartar buildup below the gumline, where regular cleanings can’t reach.
Who Might Need a Deep Cleaning?
If your gums show signs of inflammation, bleeding, or recession, or if you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, a deep cleaning may be necessary. During your visit, we measure the depth of your gum pockets—spaces between your teeth and gums. Healthy pockets should be 1-3 millimeters deep. If they are deeper, it indicates a need for additional care.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?
- Scaling: During a deep cleaning, the dentist or hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar not only from above the gumline but also from below, where bacteria often accumulate. This includes cleaning deep pockets formed by gum disease, which are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
- Root Planing: After scaling, the tooth roots are smoothed out to help prevent future bacteria buildup. Root planing is a crucial step in the process because it removes rough areas on the tooth roots where bacteria can hide and multiply, which helps to promote healthier gums and prevent further gum disease.
- Comfort Measures: To ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to numb the treated areas, making the experience more manageable.
Regular vs Deep Cleanings
Regular and deep cleanings are both essential for maintaining good oral health, but they serve different purposes and are performed in different ways.
Regular cleaning is primarily preventive care, aimed at removing plaque and tartar buildup above the gumline. It’s typically done every six months during routine check-ups and usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes in a single visit.
In contrast, a deep cleaning is required when there is gum disease. It focuses on cleaning below the gumline, where plaque and tartar can cause infection and damage to the gums. Deep cleanings are often spread over multiple visits, with each visit addressing one quadrant of the mouth.
At Reza Dental, our dentist will assess your oral health and determine exactly which type of cleaning you need based on your condition. Whether it’s regular or deep cleaning, you can trust that the treatment plan will be tailored to ensure your gums and teeth remain healthy.
What Happens After a Deep Cleaning?
After a deep cleaning, it’s normal to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is crucial to ensure optimal healing. Here are some common recommendations:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitize toothpaste.
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few days.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
How to Maintain Oral Health Between Cleanings
Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is essential to prolong the benefits of your dental cleanings and keep your smile in top shape. Here are some tips:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Aim for at least two minutes each time.
- Floss Daily: Clean between your teeth to remove plaque and food particles your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: Use an alcohol-free antibacterial rinse to keep bacteria at bay.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth moist.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamins and minerals promote healthy teeth and gums.
Why Choose Parsa Dental in Sun Valley, CA?
At Parsa Dental, we’re committed to providing personalized care for every patient. Our experienced team takes the time to understand your needs and recommend the best treatments for your oral health. From routine cleanings to advanced periodontal care, we’re here to ensure your smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning Today
Don’t wait until your next check-up to take care of your oral health. Whether you’re due for a regular cleaning or need a more specialized deep cleaning, Parsa Dental in Sun Valley, CA, is here to help. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, and create a personalized plan to keep your smile at its best. Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step toward optimal oral health.
