Deep teeth cleaning, also referred to as "subgingival cleaning" and "root planing", allows the dentist to remove plaque that is below the gum line. This procedure, which must be performed by a specialist, helps to treat gum pockets due to periodontal disease. Before making it, you need to speak to a dentist to look at options and risks. During the procedure, plaque is removed, while the roots of the teeth are smoothed. After treatment, take care of your gums to prevent possible infections.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare for the Appointment
Step 1. Make a dentist appointment
Deep cleaning is usually recommended after diagnosing periodontitis. It is best to do it as soon as possible to prevent deeper gum pockets from developing.
If you have been diagnosed with acute periodontitis, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist - a specialist in gum disease - to perform a deep cleaning
Step 2. Learn about laser treatment
In some cases it is possible to remove the plaque using the latest laser technologies. Less painful, they also reduce bleeding and swelling following the procedure. If your dentist has the opportunity to use this technique, ask him if it is possible to apply it to your specific case.
Step 3. Share your medical history with your dentist
Certain conditions can increase the risk of getting an infection after performing a deep clean. Your dentist should be aware of your medical history, including any gum disease. If he knows you are an at-risk patient, he can prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infections. Be sure to explain in the following cases:
- Heart problems that put you at risk of endocarditis, such as HIV, heart valve disease, or a congenital heart defect
- Diseases or problems associated with the immune system;
- Recent surgery;
- Presence of prostheses, such as artificial hip or heart valve;
- Smoke.
Part 2 of 3: Addressing the Procedure
Step 1. Before starting, the dentist should determine which parts of the oral cavity actually need deep cleaning
In the case of some patients, the problem affects only one area of the mouth, so the procedure is not necessary in other areas. In other circumstances, the disease affects the entire oral cavity, thus requiring subgingival cleaning and complete root planing.
Step 2. Learn about anesthesia
In most cases, local anesthesia is given to desensitize the gums during the procedure. An injection is usually done in the gums themselves to numb this area, lips and tongue. Alternatively, the dentist could use a gel, which only numbs the gums.
- If your mouth is numb, you shouldn't eat until the anesthesia has stopped working or you risk accidentally biting your tongue.
- Anesthesia is not necessary, but it is usually recommended. If you prefer it not to be administered, you can ask your dentist if it can be avoided.
Step 3. Let the dentist perform the subgingival cleaning, the first part of the procedure
Your dentist will ask you to open your mouth as wide as possible. With the help of a hook-shaped tool, he will remove the plaque that is below the gum line. Some specialists use an ultrasound device that similarly removes the dental patina. Both instruments are passed around the tooth along the gum line.
Step 4. Undergo root planing, the second part of deep cleansing
During this procedure, the gums are smoothed at the point of junction with the tooth to eliminate the pockets that have formed between the gum and the tooth.
Part 3 of 3: Taking Care of Your Gums
Step 1. Check for bleeding
If your gums are sensitive or bleeding, you can relieve the discomfort by rinsing with warm salt water. By pressing a piece of gauze or a moistened tea bag on the affected area, you can reduce or stop the bleeding.
The bleeding usually stops within 1 to 2 days, although pain or tenderness can be felt for up to a week. If your gums continue to bleed after 2 days, call your dentist
Step 2. Take the medications you are prescribed
Your dentist may prescribe tablets to prevent infection and relieve pain or a specific mouthwash. Follow his instructions to the letter, regardless of the treatment prescribed.
Instead of prescribing tablets, dentists sometimes apply targeted medications directly to the gums. In this case, avoid eating for 12 hours following the procedure and don't floss for a week. You may also be advised to avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods
Step 3. Go to the follow-up visit
At the end of the appointment, the dentist will invite you to schedule another one to assess the situation and measure the depth of the gum pockets after deep cleaning. If they have grown larger, more drastic measures, such as periodontal surgery, may be necessary.
The second visit can be scheduled a few weeks or months after the procedure
Step 4. Try to adopt good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease from getting worse and to avoid the risk of having problems in the future
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day.
- Quitting smoking can also help fight gum problems.
- You have to go to the dentist at least 1 or 2 times a year to do a cleaning and a general check-up. The specialist may continue to check the depth of the gum pockets to ensure that the disease is not intensifying.
Advice
- During pregnancy, it is possible to undergo any type of dental procedure.
- Always follow your dentist's advice to care for your oral cavity following the procedure.
Warnings
- If you do not follow the post-operative instructions given by your dentist, periodontitis could worsen.
- During deep cleansing, bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream. For healthy patients this does not pose a risk, but in the presence of a disease it is possible for an infection to develop.
