Is periodontal cleaning the same as deep cleaning?

Periodontal maintenance (deep cleaning) is very similar to regular cleanings, but it does have its differences. For one, you'll probably need these appointments more often; you'll need to return every three or four months.

Is periodontal scaling and root planing the same as deep cleaning?

Deep cleaning is also known as scaling and root planning. Removing plaque and tarter from the teeth's surface and gum pockets is known as scaling, while root planning involves removing plaque and tarter from the surface of the roots.

Does a periodontist do deep cleaning?

During a deep cleaning, the periodontist will use a probe to measure your gum pockets. Pockets are spaces between your gums and teeth that are wider than five millimeters. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, everyone should have their gums examined by a dentist at least once a year.

What does periodontal cleaning mean?

Periodontal maintenance scaling is needed to maintain gum and bone health. This procedure includes removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, all the way down the length of each tooth to where the root, gum, and bone meet.

What is the difference between periodontal maintenance and a regular cleaning?

Similar to a regular teeth cleaning, periodontal maintenance removes tartar buildup from the teeth. Unlike a normal, preventative cleaning, periodontal maintenance is a treatment prescribed to combat periodontal disease.

Periodontal treatment protocol

How long does a periodontal cleaning take?

The average time for a deep cleaning visit is approximately 45 minutes. In most cases, a deep cleaning will take two visits to clean both sides of the mouth.

Is periodontal cleaning painful?

The treatment is done under local anesthetic. It does not hurt but the gums can feel sore afterwards.

Do gums reattach after deep cleaning?

While any gum loss experienced due to gum disease will not grow back, the majority of patients can expect their gums to reattach after undergoing a deep cleaning. This is because all of the harmful bacteria has been removed, allowing the gums to once again be healthy.

How often should periodontal scaling be done?

Individuals with healthy teeth and gums only need a regular dental checkup and cleaning twice a year; however, depending on the severity of your periodontitis, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, at least twice a year or more.

How long does periodontal maintenance last?

Periodontal maintenance is therapeutic in nature and includes “removal of bacterial plaque and calculus from supragingival and subgingival regions, site specific scaling and root planing where indicated, and polishing the teeth.” Periodontal maintenance should always follow definitive periodontal therapy for a period ...

How does a periodontist clean your gums?

In scaling, your periodontist will use a hand-held dental scaler to manually scrape the plaque from your teeth above and below your gum line. They may also use an ultrasonic tool with a vibrating metal tip, plus a water spray to wash tartar away.

What can a periodontist do that a dentist can t?

A periodontist can do a gum graft, where they take tissue, usually from the roof of your mouth, and use it to cover the receded gum line. A healthy gum line can help stop tooth decay, reduce sensitivity and pain, and improve your smile. Other surgical treatments a periodontist can perform include: Laser treatments.

Can teeth fall out after deep cleaning?

Your teeth are not likely to fall out after deep cleaning; however, potential complications of this treatment include nerve damage in teeth, receding gums, tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, and infection.

Is a deep clean the same as a scale and polish?

Whilst a scale and polish is a non invasive treatment, a deep clean is anything but. Patients should be under no illusion that this is a very different treatment from that provided by the hygienist and should not be taken to mean simply a more thorough cleaning. Another name by which it is known is 'root scaling'.

Do you need anesthesia for deep cleaning?

Yes, the deep cleaning procedure requires local anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable through the whole procedure. However, a routine dental cleaning doesn't require any anesthesia, though you may request oral sedation if you're anxious.

Is Deep cleaning worth it?

A deep dental cleaning is necessary when there is a significant amount of bacteria and tartar buildup on the surfaces of your teeth. Once pockets form from gum disease, the bacteria and tartar begin to fill these pockets. If not removed, periodontal disease and eventually tooth loss can take place.

Is periodontal scaling covered by insurance?

Since scaling and root planing is usually a medically necessary treatment for gum disease, dental insurance usually covers 50% or more of the cost.

Is periodontal cleaning necessary?

If you have pockets 4mm or greater, or other evidence of periodontal disease, a cleaning is almost always necessary to stop the progression of gingivitis. If your dentist deems deep cleaning necessary, it is very important that you schedule an appointment.

What is the difference between scaling and root planing?

What is the difference between scaling and root planing? Scaling removes toxins and buildup from your gums, root planing helps prevent this buildup from coming back. Root planing is used to smooth the root surfaces of your teeth, allowing your gum tissue to more firmly attach to your roots.

What to avoid after deep cleaning teeth?

Any food or drink that is high in acid like tomatoes, citrus fruits, pickles, fruit juice and red wine are harsh on your mouth after a deep dental cleaning. Spicy and heavily seasoned foods may also cause your mouth some discomfort. Foods like hamburgers will cause you to open your mouth wider.

Can I use Listerine after deep cleaning?

Care, after Deep Cleaning Appointments

Brush twice a day using a soft nylon brush with fluoridated toothpaste. Using good mouthwash and medicated toothpaste helps control tartar build-up. Always choose ADA-approved products. Using a reputed mouthwash is also recommended.

Does Listerine help periodontitis?

While LISTERINE^® mouthwash products can help prevent early gum disease, they are not indicated to treat periodontitis.

What type of anesthesia is used for deep cleaning?

That's how invested we are in this essential component of periodontal health. At your appointment, our registered dental hygienists will use local anesthetic (i.e., Novocaine) to assure your comfort during the procedure. Of course, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and other levels of sedation are available for you.

Should you floss with periodontitis?

The Proper Way to Floss

Flossing is a great way to remove plaque from the interdental regions (between the teeth). Flossing is an especially important tool for preventing periodontal disease and limiting the depth of the gum pockets.

How often should deep cleaning be done?

The American Dental Association says that you should be visiting your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning. The reason that it's twice a year is because a professional deep dental clean is vital to preventing serious dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay.