Teeth Cleaning
Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond daily brushing and flossing. Professional teeth cleaning is an essential part of oral hygiene that helps prevent tooth loss and keep your gums in top shape. At O’Neill Dental Care, we are dedicated to providing thorough cleanings that safeguard your dental health. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind professional cleanings, the benefits of deep cleaning, and how these practices can prevent tooth loss.
Why Professional Teeth Cleaning Is Crucial
Professional teeth cleaning is more than just a routine checkup. Even with the most diligent home care, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas, leading to gum disease and other complications. During a professional cleaning at O’Neill Dental Care, our expert hygienists will remove plaque, tartar, and stains, leaving your teeth feeling fresh and clean.
The Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleaning Include:
- Prevention of Tooth Decay: Regular cleaning removes plaque buildup, which is a significant cause of cavities.
- Gum Disease Prevention: Removing tartar and plaque helps to prevent gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
- Fresher Breath: Cleaning eliminates the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
- Brighter Smile: Removing stains caused by food, drink, and tobacco can brighten your teeth.
Understanding Deep Cleaning: When and Why It’s Necessary
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is more intensive than a regular cleaning. This procedure is recommended when there is significant tartar buildup below the gum line, which can lead to periodontal (gum) disease. Unlike regular cleaning, which focuses on the visible part of your teeth, deep cleaning targets the areas beneath the gums to prevent serious oral health issues.
Key Indicators That You Might Need a Deep Cleaning:
- Persistent Bad Breath: Often a sign of bacteria buildup beneath the gums.
- Bleeding Gums: A common symptom of gum disease.
- Receding Gums: Exposure of tooth roots can indicate the need for deeper intervention.
- Loose Teeth: This can be a sign of bone loss due to untreated gum disease.
What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning
When you visit O’Neill Dental Care for deep cleaning, you can expect a thorough and gentle procedure designed to restore your oral health. The process typically involves two steps: scaling and root planing.
- Scaling: Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line.
- Root Planing: This step involves smoothing the roots of your teeth to help your gums reattach and heal, reducing the depth of the pockets where bacteria thrive.
While deep cleaning is more intensive than regular cleaning, it’s crucial for preventing the progression of gum disease. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Preventing Tooth Loss Through Professional Care
One of the most significant benefits of regular and deep cleanings is the prevention of tooth loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, but with proper care, it’s entirely preventable. Regular visits to O’Neill Dental Care allow our team to catch issues early and provide the necessary treatments to maintain your teeth for life.
How Professional Cleanings Prevent Tooth Loss:
- Early Detection: Regular exams can identify early signs of gum disease before they lead to tooth loss.
- Tartar Removal: Removing tartar buildup reduces the risk of gum recession and bone loss.
- Personalized Care: We provide tailored advice and treatment plans to address your specific oral health needs.
Final Thoughts
At O’Neill Dental Care, we believe in the power of preventive care. Regular and deep cleanings are not just about maintaining a beautiful smile—they’re about protecting your overall health. By keeping up with your dental visits and following our recommended care routines, you can avoid the pain and expense of tooth loss.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule your professional teeth cleaning with us today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile.
FAQs About Teeth Cleaning
Can deep cleaning damage your teeth? No, deep cleaning is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a professional. It is designed to remove harmful plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
What are the benefits of deep cleaning teeth? Deep cleaning helps eliminate bacteria beneath the gum line, reduces gum inflammation, and promotes healing. It’s a vital step in preventing the progression of gum disease.
How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned? We recommend visiting the dentist for a cleaning every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease, more frequent visits may be necessary.
Is professional teeth cleaning necessary? Yes, professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Why are my gums receding after a deep cleaning? Gum recession after a deep cleaning is typically due to the removal of tartar that was previously supporting the gums. Over time, with proper care, the gums will heal and reattach to the teeth.