Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, allows your dentist to remove plaque below the gumline of your teeth.Periodontal disease can cause pockets in your gums.You need a dentist to perform this procedure.Discuss your options and risks with the dentist.The dentist will smooth over the roots of your teeth during the procedure.You should care for your teeth after that.
Step 1: You can schedule an appointment with the dentist.
After periodontitis has been diagnosed, a deep cleaning is usually recommended.You should have an appointment with your dentist for the deep cleaning.It is possible that you will want to do it soon after your diagnosis.If you are diagnosed with severe periodontitis, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist.There is a dentist who does gum disease.
Step 2: Discuss laser treatment with your dentist.
The dentist may be able to remove the plaque using new techniques.They are less painful and cause less bleeding after the procedure.Ask your dentist if laser treatment is a good option for you if they have access to the technology.
Step 3: Ask your dentist to give you a medical history.
After the deep cleaning, certain conditions may increase your risk of infections.Inform your dentist of any family history of gum disease.If your dentist knows that you are at increased risk, they can prescribe you an antibiotic.If you have a heart problem that puts you at risk for HIV, damaged heart valves, or a congenital heart defect, be sure to tell them.
Step 4: Determine the location of the deep cleaning.
The dentist should be able to tell you which parts of your mouth need to be cleaned.Some people don't need the procedure in other areas if they only have one part of their mouth affected.The mouth may be affected by other people.They will need root planing.
Step 5: Ask about anesthesia.
A local anesthetic will be applied to your gums to numb them during the procedure.The most common method of anesthesia is injection.It will numb your mouth.Your dentist could use a gel.This will numb your teeth.If your mouth is numb, you shouldn't eat until the numbness goes away.It is typically recommended that you do not need anesthesia.If you're not comfortable with the use of anesthetics, you can ask your dentist if you should.
Step 6: The dentist can do the scaling.
The scaling is the first part of the deep cleaning.Your dentist will want you to open your mouth wide.The dentist will use a tool to remove plaque below the gumline.Ultrasonic devices can be used to remove plaque in a similar way.The tools are near the gumline.
Step 7: Go away from root planing.
The deep cleaning includes root planing.During planing, the gums around your teeth are smoothed with a tool to reduce pockets that may have formed between the gum and the teeth.
Step 8: Control the bleeding.
If your mouth is bleeding or tender, you can rinse it with warm salt water.Pressing a piece of damp gauze or a moistened tea bag to a bleeding spot can stop the bleeding.Bleeding will usually stop after a day or two, although some may last for up to a week.If you notice bleeding after two days, call your dentist.
Step 9: Take it with you.
A pill may be prescribed by your dentist to help prevent infections and reduce pain.Follow their directions when using any treatment they provide.Your dentist may insert medicine directly into your gums instead of giving you a pill.They should avoid eating for twelve hours after the procedure and not floss for a week.It is possible that you need to avoid tough, hard, and sticky foods.
Step 10: Go back for a check-up.
At your appointment, your dentist will ask you to schedule another appointment so that they can follow up on your gum care.They will measure how deep the pockets of your gum are.If the pockets have gotten bigger, they may need to take more drastic action.A second visit may happen a few weeks or months after the procedure.
Step 11: Good oral hygiene is important.
Good mouth hygiene can prevent gum disease from getting worse, and it will reduce the problems that you have in the future.Floss at least once daily and brush your teeth twice a day.Smoking can cause gum problems.You should visit your dentist at least once a year.The depth of your gum pockets can be checked by your dentist to make sure that the disease is not progressing.