A dental deep cleaning involves more than simply spending extra time polishing your teeth during a normal visit to the dentist. This treatment is typically reserved for patients who have not kept up with their biannual exams and cleanings and have a build-up of plaque and tartar. Below, the professionals at King Campbell, DDS, PLLC, in Pagosa Springs, CO, explain the details of this treatment, so patients know what to expect and understand why it’s needed.

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

Also referred to as scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning uses special dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, gums, and tooth roots. The scaling portion involves using an electric or manual tool to scrape away plaque and tartar. Then, the dentist or dental hygienist uses a tool to plane or smooth out the tooth roots. Smoothing the roots helps to prevent the accumulation of plaque in those areas.

When Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?

During a regular cleaning and exam, your dental hygienist or dentist will use a probe to measure the pockets, or spaces, between the teeth and gums. When the gums are healthy, these pockets are about three millimeters deep. In patients with gum disease, though, these pockets may be five millimeters or more.

These pockets are the perfect place for plaque and tartar to accumulate, as they can’t be removed with regular brushing and flossing. If you have pockets that are greater than five millimeters, and you have gum disease, the dentist will likely recommend a deep cleaning. Provided you maintain a quality oral hygiene regimen at home after this treatment, you should begin to see improvements in your gum health.

The professionals at King Campbell, DDS, PLLC, focus on providing patients with high-quality preventative dental care, which includes biannual teeth cleanings and exams. If you’re overdue for a dental appointment, or if you’ve notice signs of gum disease, turn to them to safeguard the future of your oral health. Give them a call today at (970) 731-2126 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information on the services they offer.