Do you ever wonder if you need a dental deep cleaning? It's important to be aware of the signs that may indicate the need for this type of preventive treatment. To start, stand in front of the mirror and lower your lower lip. Check your gums to see if they look swollen at the gumline or if the bags look abnormally full. If so, this could be a sign that they are full of tartar, plaque, bacteria, or pus, which are all indicators of gum disease.
Your dentist will use several methods and tools to determine if you need a deep cleaning. This includes a clinical exam, periodontal examination (a measurement around each tooth), and digital x-rays to see the levels and shape of the bones. While not everyone may need it if they regularly visit their dental office twice a year, they may be more susceptible to needing a deep cleaning if they take poor care of their oral health. Deep cleaning involves carefully scraping and cleaning the surfaces of the tooth roots (called root smoothing).
This type of treatment is often reserved for patients with existing dental problems, such as gum disease or neglected oral hygiene. If your dentist determines that deep cleaning is necessary, regular cleaning won't help you regain proper oral health. We have so many responsibilities that it's easy to neglect some of the needs that are least considered, such as regular visits to the dentist for dental checkups and cleanings. Any sensitivity in the gums or teeth when eating or cleaning your teeth could be a sign of an infection that requires deep cleaning.
If deep cleaning your teeth evokes the image of your dentist extracting a substance in the lower part of the oral cavity, it wouldn't be too out of place. It's important to be aware of the signs that may indicate the need for a dental deep cleaning. If you notice any swelling at the gumline or abnormally full bags in your gums, it's best to consult with your dentist right away. They will be able to assess your oral health and determine if a deep cleaning is necessary.