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Deep Cleaning & Scaling Services Darien
Revitalize Your Smile with Professional Deep Cleaning and Scaling Services
What Dental Treatments Are Cosmetic?
Deep cleaning and scaling are dental procedures to remove tartar, plaque, and bacteria from gums and teeth, particularly in cases of advanced gum disease or excessive buildup of plaque and tartar.
- Scaling: Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth area, mostly above the gum line. Plaque is a sticky particle that forms on the teeth due to the accumulation of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If not extracted regularly through brushing and flossing, plaque gets hard and becomes tartar (also called calculus), which a dental professional can effectively remove. Scaling can be done manually using dental instruments (scalers) or with the help of ultrasonic devices that use high-frequency vibrations to break down the tartar.
- Deep Cleaning (Root Planing): Deep cleaning, also known as root planing or periodontal scaling and root planing, goes further than regular scaling. It involves removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and the roots of the teeth below the gumline. The procedure aims to smooth the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to prevent further plaque and tartar buildup and promote the healing of the gum tissues. Deep cleaning is typically recommended for individuals with gum disease (periodontitis) to prevent its progression and improve gum health.
It’s important to note that deep cleaning and scaling are preventive or therapeutic procedures for gum disease and excessive plaque/tartar buildup. Regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices can help maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
The Importance of Regular Deep Cleaning and Scaling
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Despite regular brushing and flossing, some mouth areas can be difficult to clean effectively, accumulating plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky coat containing bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar, the hardened form of plaque, cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone. Deep cleaning and scaling effectively remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of dental problems.
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth leads to inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can grow and result in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Regular deep cleaning and scaling help to eliminate the bacteria and toxins causing gum disease, reducing the risk of its progression and preserving gum health.
- Improvement of Oral Health: Deep cleaning and scaling address gum disease and contribute to oral health. By removing plaque and tartar, these procedures help to limit cavities, bad breath, and other oral health issues. A clean and healthy mouth can positively impact your self-confidence, promoting fresh breath, a brighter smile, and a healthier appearance.
- Early Detection of Dental Problems: Dental professionals closely examine your teeth and gums during deep cleaning and scaling. This allows them to identify any signs of dental problems, such as cavities, tooth fractures, gum recession, or oral abnormalities. Early detection of these issues enables prompt treatment, preventing further complications and potentially saving your natural teeth.
- Prevention of Systemic Health Issues: Maintaining good oral health through regular deep cleaning and scaling has lowered the risk of certain systemic health conditions. Gum disease has been connected with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. By reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth, deep cleaning, and scaling contribute to improved overall health and a lower risk of these systemic conditions.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning and Scaling
- Prevention and Treatment of Gum Disease: Deep cleaning and scaling are essential in preventing and treating gum disease (periodontal disease). These procedures remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums, reducing inflammation and preventing the progression of gum disease. Addressing the underlying causes of gum disease, deep cleaning, and scaling help to restore gum health and avoid further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: It is possible that regular brushing and flossing may not effectively remove all plaque and tartar, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Deep cleaning and scaling ensure the thorough removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, including below the gumline. This helps to prevent tooth decay, gum inflammation, and other oral health issues associated with plaque and tartar buildup.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Deep cleaning and scaling provide a clean slate for maintaining good oral hygiene. By eliminating plaque and tartar, these procedures make it easier to brush and floss effectively, promoting optimal oral health. A clean and smooth tooth surface makes it harder for plaque to accumulate, reducing the risk of future dental problems.
- Fresh Breath: Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Deep cleaning and scaling remove these bacteria, resulting in fresher breath and improved oral hygiene.
- Preservation of Natural Teeth: Gum disease and excessive plaque and tartar formation can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Deep cleaning and scaling help to preserve natural teeth by preventing the progression of gum disease and addressing the underlying causes of tooth loss. By maintaining gum health and removing harmful bacteria, these procedures contribute to the long-term preservation of your natural teeth.
Signs You May Need Deep Cleaning and Scaling
Several signs may indicate that you may need deep cleaning and scaling to address gum disease and excessive plaque and tartar buildup. Here are some common signs to consider:
Gum inflammation
Red, swollen, or tender gums are often an early sign of gum disease. If your gums appear puffy or bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing, it may indicate the need for deep cleaning and scaling.
Gum recession
Receding gums expose more tooth roots, making them appear longer. If you find out that your teeth look longer than before or if you can visibly see the tooth roots, it may indicate gum disease and the need for professional cleaning.
Persistent bad breath
Bad breath that persists even after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash could be a sign of gum disease. Deep cleaning and scaling can help eliminate the underlying bacteria causing the foul odor.
Loose or shifting teeth
As gum disease progresses, it can affect the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to the loosening or moving of teeth. If you notice any changes in the alignment or stability of your teeth, it's essential to have a dental evaluation that may involve deep cleaning and scaling.
Pus or discharge
The presence of pus or discharge around the gum line is a definite sign of infection and gum disease. This requires immediate attention from a dental professional, who may recommend deep cleaning and scaling to address the condition.
Visible plaque and tartar buildup
If you notice a yellowish or brownish buildup on your teeth, especially along the gumline, it is likely plaque and tartar. Regular brushing and flossing cannot remove tartar; professional scaling is necessary to eliminate it effectively.