Dental Deep Cleaning Recovery and Aftercare

October 13, 2020
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Dental Deep Cleaning Recovery and Aftercare

Patients with plaque or tartar built up around teeth and under gums may get it removed through dental deep cleaning. This form of cleaning goes beyond the normal method by getting rid of plaque in pockets between teeth and gums that are deeper because of receding tissue. Appropriate aftercare helps patients recover quickly and continue to improve their oral health.

What to expect from a deep cleaning

A dental deep cleaning may be recommended by a dentist who notices signs of gum disease like larger pockets, inflamed gums and deteriorating tissue. By thoroughly eliminating plaque, the bacteria within it that releases toxins and causes gum disease is also eradicated.

A patient will likely undergo at least two appointments to complete a cleaning of the entire mouth. It can help patients feel more prepared for the procedure if they understand how it works.

The procedure

Scaling and root planing are techniques that scrape plaque away from teeth. To get into the pockets beneath the gums, a dentist can use a hand instrument that can reach deeper plaque and smooths the surface of the tooth root.

Aftereffects

Expect to see a decrease in gum disease indicators after a dental deep cleaning. Inflammation and swelling of the gums should go down, and redness should disappear. The teeth and mouth may be sensitive to hot and cold foods and to the touch.

How to care for teeth afterward

Once a patient has received an initial deep cleaning, there are several aftercare steps to ensure teeth stay healthy. Patients can look forward to healing gums during the recovery period, which can last for several weeks after the procedure.

Home care

Every situation is different, and the dentist can provide each patient with a list of home-care steps to help with recovery and maintain good health. Common home care involves rinsing with warm salt water several times a day, gentle brushing and flossing on a regular basis, and taking pain relievers like ibuprofen if experiencing discomfort or achiness. Some people may be prescribed antibiotics by the dentist, which should be taken for the allotted period of time. Patients should avoid smoking for several days following the procedure.

Diet

Starting out with soft foods can help decrease discomfort while teeth and gums are still sensitive. Avoid hot and cold foods like soup and ice cream. Gradually go onto harder foods as teeth adjust and gums heal.

Follow-up appointments

A dentist will likely ask patients to return four to six weeks later to make sure that the gum disease is declining and no complications have arisen. Patients may be recommended to see a dentist for cleanings more often throughout the year, giving the gums a greater chance at recovering and making it harder for infection to return.

Conclusion

Removing plaque once does not mean it cannot return, and gum disease with it. Keeping up with daily oral hygiene is just as important as visiting a dentist for a dental deep cleaning. Maintaining good home care tops the list of how to keep gums healthy.

Request an appointment here: https://gratondentalgr.wpengine.com or call Graton Dental Group at (707) 706-2028 for an appointment in our Rohnert Park office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Rohnert Park, CA.

Call our Rohnert Park Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.


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