Deep Cleanings Vs. Regular Cleanings – What’s The Difference?

If you haven’t seen the dentist in a while, you may think that you need a “deep cleaning” from Dr. Jonathan Siverson at Forest Lake Smiles. But there’s actually a big difference between deep cleanings and regular teeth cleanings. In this blog, we’ll discuss what you need to know about each one, and whether you need a regular cleaning or a deep cleaning in Forest Lake.
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What Is A Regular Cleaning? Understanding Routine Preventive Care

A regular cleaning or “prophylactic cleaning” is recommended every six months. This is a type of preventive teeth cleaning that’s meant to eliminate the buildup of plaque and tartar, and ensure that your mouth is healthy and free of common oral health problems like cavities and gum disease.

Before your cleaning begins, x-rays may be taken to check for hidden oral health issues. Then, your dental hygienist at Forest Lake Smiles will use a special tool to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Then, your teeth will be cleaned and polished with a high-powered brush, and flossed to remove any remaining debris. 

After your cleaning is complete, Dr. Siverson will examine your mouth and your x-rays to look for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health issues, and to ensure you have a clean bill of health. 
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What Is A Deep Cleaning? Understanding Treatment For Gum Disease 

It may sound similar to a regular cleaning, but a deep cleaning is a very different treatment. It’s not required for all patients. It’s only necessary to get a deep cleaning if you have gum disease. If your mouth is healthy, you will never need a deep cleaning.

Deep cleanings are also called “scaling and root planing.” To begin the process, Dr. Siverson will numb your mouth. Then, he will use special tools to scrape plaque and tartar away from between your teeth and gums. After this, he will smooth out the roots of your teeth to eliminate periodontal “pockets” full of bacteria.

One half of your mouth will be cleaned during this procedure, which usually takes 1-2 hours. You will need to come back to Forest Lake Smiles for a follow-up appointment to have the other half of your mouth cleaned. 

Deep cleanings are usually the first step that a dentist will take when treating patients with gum disease. With a deep cleaning, proper at-home oral hygiene, and antibiotic treatment, it’s usually possible to halt or even reverse the progression of gum disease, depending on its severity and progression. 
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Overdue For A Teeth Cleaning In Forest Lake? Contact Us Today! 

At Forest Lake Smiles, Dr. Jonathan Siverson is always here to help you take control of your oral health. Whether you’re overdue for a routine teeth cleaning in Forest Lake, or you suspect that you might have gum disease and may require a deep cleaning, we’re standing by to help you. Just contact us online or give us a call at (651) 464-8207 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Siverson is always accepting new patients at Forest Lake Smiles, and we look forward to meeting you.