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Do You Need a Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Posted on 5/9/2022 by Office of Dr. James A. Krippaehne

A deep cleaning has been recommended by your dentist. Is it necessary? Absolutely. Dental deep cleanings, also called gum therapy, involve cleaning the gums and teeth down to the roots. In a regular cleaning, the hygienist or dentist will clean your teeth, gum line, and sides. In a deep teeth cleaning, they remove tartar to the root of the tooth. A "root planing and scaling" procedure may require several visits to complete. It is intended to treat gum disease and prevent it from worsening.

Is it The Same as a Regular Teeth Cleaning?

Plaque and bacteria accumulate in your mouth, so brushing and flossing twice daily is recommended. Regular dental exams and cleanings remove plaque from your teeth. We miss most of that plaque along the gum line when we brush. The dental hygienist removes tartar during a regular cleaning. A lack of proper tooth brushing habits or the presence of a genetic predisposition to gum disease can lead to gingivitis, red, swollen gums that bleed easily. An untreated infection of the gum and bone can lead to periodontal disease, which eventually leads to tooth loss. In order to determine if the infection exists, x-rays and pocket depth are taken into account.

In the event of this infection, interceptive gum therapy is needed to prevent the disease from progressing. When your hygienist calls out 4, 5, or 6, it's time for a deep cleaning! A regular teeth cleaning with a deep teeth cleaning are very different because they are designed to do very different things. Cleanings are preventative, while deep cleanings stop the progression of periodontal disease.

Should You Get a Deep Cleaning?

Dentists or dental hygienists know for sure. You might be at risk for periodontal disease or already have it if your dentist finds significant pockets. If you want to prevent the progression of the disease, a deep teeth cleaning is recommended. If you do not treat your gum pockets, plaque, tartar, and bone loss will continue.

WE TREAT OUR PATIENTS WITH RESPECT

We believe in educating patients about their treatment options and listening to their questions and concerns.

WE BELIEVE IN HEALTHY TEETH FIRST

We focus on prevention so that you keep your smile healthy. We provide excellent comfortable care for all procedures.

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Office: (503) 446-2957
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Dr. James Krippaehne

West End Dental
833 SW 11th Ave Suite 300
Portland, OR 97205

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Dental Blog | Portland OR | West End Dental
West End Dental, 833 SW 11th Ave, Suite 300 Portland, OR 97205 \ (503) 446-2957 \ west-end-dental.com \ 9/29/2024 \ Associated Words: dentist Downtown Portland \