Difference Between Regular Teeth Cleaning And Deep Cleaning
Oral hygiene is important for a healthy lifestyle. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are the basic steps to take care of your teeth. However, dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. There are two types of dental cleaning: regular teeth cleaning and deep cleaning. In this article, we will discuss the difference between them.
Regular Teeth Cleaning
Regular teeth cleaning is also known as prophylaxis. It is a preventive measure to keep your teeth and gums healthy. A dental hygienist or dentist performs this cleaning. They use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth and contains bacteria. If not removed, it can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing.
After removing the plaque and tartar, the hygienist will polish your teeth using a special paste. This paste removes surface stains and makes your teeth shiny. Lastly, they will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris. This whole process takes around 30 minutes to an hour. Regular teeth cleaning should be done every six months.
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is also known as scaling and root planing. It is needed when there is a significant amount of plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. If left untreated, it can cause gum disease and tooth loss. Deep cleaning is a non-surgical procedure that is done under local anesthesia.
The dentist or hygienist uses a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. They will also smooth out any rough spots on the roots of your teeth. This process is called root planing. It helps to remove bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Deep cleaning is more invasive than regular teeth cleaning. It may take longer, depending on the severity of the condition. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, sensitivity, and bleeding for a few days. Deep cleaning is usually done in two or more visits, a few weeks apart.
Conclusion
Regular teeth cleaning and deep cleaning are both important for maintaining good oral health. Regular teeth cleaning is a preventive measure that is done every six months. Deep cleaning is needed when there is a significant amount of plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be removed by regular cleaning. It is a non-surgical procedure that requires local anesthesia. If you have any concerns about your oral health, consult with your dentist.