What is a deep clean and do I need one?
A deep clean refers to removing calculus and build up from underneath the gum. Calculus (tartar) build up can accumulate when you miss areas when brushing and flossing.
The build up causes an inflammation response in your gums and over time, the gum and bone recedes to try and get away from the calculus build up. This can look like receding gums, bleeding gums, and pain from your gums. If there is a lot of build up, or if the gum has receded significantly, a thorough clean is needed to remove all the calculus and for your gums to heal.
What happens in a deep clean?
There are a few ways to do a deep clean. Depending on you and how you feel at the dentist we usually numb up the gum. From there we tackle the mouth in halves or quarters. For example, at appointment one, we numb up and clean the top right, appointment two, numb and clean the top left, etc. Some people are happy to have more teeth numbed and cleaned at once.
During cleaning, we use ultrasonic and hand scalers to clean all the build up off your teeth and gums. You should expect a few days of gum tenderness.
What happens if I don’t get a deep clean?
Any calculus that is not removed stays and continues to cause inflammation. Over time the gum and bone will continue to recede. This is called periodontitis. Eventually, the teeth become loose and give pain.
How do I keep my gums clean to avoid a deep clean?
Proper home hygiene is important to make sure that plaque and calculus do not collect on your teeth.
- Brush twice a day
- Brush for 2 minutes each time
- Use toothpaste and a soft bristled toothbrush
- Floss or use an interproximal cleaner once a day
- Come in every 6 months for a normal clean to make sure plaque and calculus does not accumulate.
Come and chat to our dentists about your gums and the best treatments for you.
