If it has been more than six months since you had a dental cleaning, it is a good idea to be aware of what an in-depth, professional cleaning will consist of and then to make the necessary appointment.  Even if you have provided yourself with frequent and appropriate dental care at home, without professional cleaning, plaque is likely to form on your teeth and gums. Therefore, you will need an in-depth cleaning to restore your dental health and appearance.

Why Do You Need a Deep Dental Cleaning?     

If it has been too long since you had a regular dental cleaning, you are likely to benefit from a deep cleaning that includes a deep scaling and root planing. It is important to note that if you have not had a professional cleaning for some time, plaque will form and harden on and around your teeth. At that point, it can only be removed completely by a dental professional. 

When left untreated, plaque can result in the following issues: 

• Tooth decay
• Gingivitis
• Bad breath
• Tooth loss 
• Infection
• Pain 
• Bone loss  

What Is Root Scaling?

Root scaling refers to a scraping of the teeth and gums, all the way down to the root. If you have severe plaque or advanced gum disease, you may need to plan for more than one appointment to treat the problem.

What Is Root Planing?

Root planing is the process of smoothing any rough dental layers that occur during scaling. It will almost always occur at the same visit as your dental scaling.

By combining the two, you are deep cleaning and smoothing the teeth and gums. The two together are often an effective way to manage any gum disease that may have developed in recent months.  

It is important to note that some pain or discomfort may occur, so you may want to discuss the possibility of local anesthesia during your procedures. It is not always necessary.  

Receding or bleeding gums are frequently some of the earliest symptoms of gum disease, so be sure to ask your dentist at your cleaning what the diagnosis is. To prevent infection after the procedures, your dentist may prescribe oral antibiotics or an antibiotic dental rinse. 

In conclusion, professional dental cleanings should be a constant in virtually every person's life from infancy. If it has been a while since you had a professional cleaning, it is a good idea to allow extra time for a more complex cleaning at your next appointment to restore your former smile.