What to Expect During a Deep Dental Cleaning

A deep dental cleaning is different than a routine cleaning from a hygienist. While the latter should be done about twice a year, a deep dental cleaning might be done once a year or when recommended by a dentist. Deep dental cleanings are typically recommended when the teeth or gums are in bad shape and could lead to an infection. When it comes to gum disease, if it is caught early enough, a deep dental cleaning can usually remedy the infection and put a halt to it. 

In this article, we go over a few things that patients can expect from their deep teeth cleaning appointments. This information may be useful to someone who is having their teeth cleaned for the first time. Knowing what to expect can make the appointment go smoother for both the dental hygienist and the patient.

What to expect during a deep dental cleaning

Read on in order to prepare for an upcoming dental appointment and to avoid any potential surprises. 

Time commitment

Deep dental cleanings can take time, and it is a good idea to keep this in mind when preparing for the appointment. Since this type of cleaning requires in-depth work, enough time must be set aside so the hygienist does not miss anything.

Patients should expect to spend at least an hour at the dentist's office. However, it may take longer than that, depending on the severity of things. In some cases, dentists recommend splitting a deep dental cleaning into two appointments, one for the upper arch and the other for the lower arch. While this may sound excessive, it can be helpful because these cleanings can be grueling on the soft tissues of the mouth. Ultimately, the time commitment is worth it because it helps individuals avoid infections later, which can be even more time consuming, depending on the treatment needed.

It is not typically necessary to take time off of work or school after the appointment. The mouth will be numbed a bit during the deep dental cleaning, and laughing gas may be used, but serious sedatives are not usually administered. 

Irritation

Some patients report that they experience slight discomfort from their deep dental cleanings. The gum lines or teeth may feel irritated, which is normal and should not last more than a day or so. The hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum lines, which can cause sensitivity within the mouth. This can be remedied with an over-the-counter pain reliever. If pain persists past a day or two, it is necessary to call the dentist. 

Generally speaking, there should not be any pain or discomfort during the cleaning itself, as the mouth can be numbed. Talking with the dentist beforehand about their cleaning technique can help ease any anxiety related to pain.

Fluoride treatment

Certain dentists will recommend a fluoride treatment to be done during the deep dental cleaning appointment. Fluoride treatments clean the teeth and gum lines and strengthen the enamel, which can help fight off infection and plaque buildup later.

Fluoride can cause slight sensitivity after the appointment, which is completely normal. Patients should avoid eating or drinking anything for a while after the treatment.

A bright and shiny smile

One of the main things to expect from a deep dental cleaning is to leave the office with a shiny and bright smile. Dental hygienists work hard during these cleanings to renew the teeth so an improved and confident smile can be achieved.

Maintaining that bright and shiny smile after the cleaning can be done by practicing good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments with the hygienist. It is also recommended to avoid excess sugar and acid consumption, which are often found in candy, soda, and alcohol. Additionally, consuming water after eating or drinking sugary items can help clear out the mouth until the teeth can be cleaned. 

Get started today

If you have questions about deep dental cleanings, please reach out to our office today so we can help you. Our team of dentists and hygienists would be happy to go over any further details about routine dental cleanings and any other dental procedures. Also, if you are ready to schedule an appointment in order to have your teeth cleaned, then do give us a call or stop by today! We would be more than happy to assist you in any way that we can!

Request an appointment here: https://www.villadental.com or call Villa Dental at (301) 409-3583 for an appointment in our Bethesda office.

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