What To Expect From a DEEP Cleaning at the Dentist
TLDRThis informative video script by dental hygienist Whitney offers a comprehensive overview of the deep cleaning process, also known as scaling and root planing. It explains the indications for deep cleaning, such as bone loss and tartar buildup, and outlines the procedure, which typically requires two appointments to clean each side of the mouth. The script also discusses post-op care, emphasizing the importance of warm salt water rinses and maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent tartar reformation. Whitney stresses the significance of regular dental appointments and home care in maintaining oral health after a deep cleaning.
Takeaways
- π A deep cleaning, also known as SRP (scaling and root planing), is recommended when dental x-rays show bone loss and tartar below the gums.
- π¦· The need for a deep cleaning is further indicated by periodontal charting with probing depths of 5 millimeters or more throughout the mouth.
- π Deep cleanings are typically performed over two appointments, focusing on one side of the mouth each time.
- β° The first appointment may last around an hour or an hour and a half, depending on the amount of build-up and bone loss.
- π½ It is advised to eat before the appointment as numbing one full side of the mouth can make eating difficult afterwards.
- π©Ί During the procedure, dentists use an ultrasonic scaler and may alternate with hand instruments for a more comfortable experience.
- π Expect a lot of water usage, suctioning, and noises during the deep cleaning process.
- π Post-op instructions usually involve rinsing with warm salt water, which can be soothing for sore gums.
- π After completing the deep cleaning, a re-evaluation appointment is scheduled four to six weeks later to check the progress and perform a regular cleaning.
- π¦·π‘ Following the re-evaluation, patients are recommended to have cleanings every three months for at least the first year, then possibly moving to a four-month schedule based on their dental provider's evaluation.
Q & A
What is a deep cleaning in dentistry?
-A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing (SRP), is a dental procedure required when x-rays show bone loss and tartar buildup below the gums. It involves a thorough cleaning of the mouth to remove plaque and tartar, helping to treat and prevent periodontal disease.
How is it determined that a patient needs a deep cleaning?
-A deep cleaning is usually recommended when dental x-rays and periodontal charting, which involves probing depths, indicate the presence of 5 millimeter orζ΄ζ·± pockets throughout the mouth, signifying potential periodontal issues.
What typically happens during the initial appointment for a deep cleaning?
-During the initial appointment, the dental provider may start the deep cleaning on part of the mouth. However, it often requires a separate appointment, especially if more time is needed or if insurance approval is necessary.
How many appointments does a full deep cleaning usually require?
-A full deep cleaning typically requires two appointments, with the first cleaning one side of the mouth (e.g., the right half) and the second appointment addressing the other side (e.g., the left half).
What should a patient expect during a deep cleaning appointment?
-During a deep cleaning appointment, patients can expect the procedure to last about an hour or an hour and a half, depending on the severity of tartar buildup and bone loss. The process involves numbing the area, using an ultrasonic scaler for scaling, and possibly hand instruments for further cleaning. Patients may feel pressure but should not experience pain.
What are the post-operative instructions after a deep cleaning?
-After a deep cleaning, patients are usually advised to rinse their mouth with warm salt water to soothe the gums. Over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol might be necessary for some, but severe discomfort is rare.
How soon after the first deep cleaning appointment should the second appointment be scheduled?
-The second appointment for the deep cleaning can be scheduled within a couple of weeks after the first appointment. This timeline helps prevent bacteria from the unclean side from spreading to the clean side.
What happens during the re-evaluation appointment four to six weeks after the deep cleanings?
-During the re-evaluation appointment, the dental provider will check the periodontal chart again, taking probing depths to compare with the initial appointment's measurements. The goal is to see improvements such as reduced gum inflammation and clean, tartar-free gum pockets. A regular cleaning and teeth polishing will also be done on this day.
What is the recommended frequency for dental cleanings after a deep cleaning?
-After a deep cleaning, patients are advised to return for cleanings every three months for at least the first year. Depending on the dental provider's evaluation, the frequency may adjust to every four months after the first year.
How can patients maintain their oral health after a deep cleaning?
-To maintain oral health after a deep cleaning, patients should adhere to their recommended home care routines, such as using an electric toothbrush, flossing, or water flossing, and keep up with regular dental appointments. Consistent dental care at home and professionally is crucial to prevent tartar buildup and keep gums healthy.
What resources are available for more information on dental health and care?
-For more information on dental health and care, patients can visit the dental hygienist's website, teethtalkgirl.com, or follow her on Instagram at @teethtalkgirl for additional insights and advice on oral care.
Outlines
π¦· Introduction to Deep Cleaning Procedures
This paragraph introduces Whitney, a dental hygienist, and discusses the general process of deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing (SRP). It emphasizes the importance of individualized care due to differences in dental offices and patient mouths. Whitney explains that deep cleanings are typically recommended based on x-ray findings of bone loss and tartar buildup below the gums, as indicated by periodontal charting. The video aims to provide an overview of what to expect during and after a deep cleaning appointment.
π Scheduling and Experience of Deep Cleaning Appointments
The second paragraph delves into the specifics of scheduling and undergoing deep cleaning appointments. It explains that deep cleanings are often split into two sessions to clean each side of the mouth separately, with the first session possibly being conducted on the same day as the initial assessment. The paragraph outlines the steps involved in a deep cleaning appointment, including taking medical history, numbing the patient, and using an ultrasonic scaler for cleaning. It also addresses post-op care, recommending a warm salt water rinse and emphasizing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental appointments for optimal results.
Mindmap
Keywords
π‘Deep Cleaning
π‘Dental X-Rays
π‘Periodontal Charting
π‘Scaling
π‘Root Planing
π‘Gum Irrigation
π‘Post-Operative Care
π‘Re-Evaluation Appointment
π‘Maintenance Stage
π‘Home Care
Highlights
Deep cleaning, also known as SRP (scaling and root planing), is necessary when dental x-rays show bone loss and tartar below the gums.
Periodontal charting probing depths often show 5mm or larger pockets in the mouth when a deep cleaning is needed.
The process of deep cleaning might start on the same day of the initial appointment or be scheduled for a different day, depending on the dental office's procedures and time availability.
Deep cleanings typically require two appointments, one for each half of the mouth, to be completed thoroughly.
The first appointment, which cleans one side of the mouth, usually lasts about an hour or an hour and a half.
Medical history and blood pressure are taken before starting the deep cleaning procedure.
Patients are numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure, with options including full numbing or a numbing gel for those who dislike needles.
During the deep cleaning, an ultrasonic scaler is used, which involves suctioning and noises, but should not cause sharp pain.
Clinicians may alternate between ultrasonic and hand instruments during the deep cleaning to reduce discomfort from suction.
Post-deep cleaning, patients are advised to rinse with warm salt water for gum comfort and to check for any remaining tartar with an explorer.
In some cases, gums may be irrigated with an antiseptic rinse or medication may be placed inside gum pockets after the deep cleaning.
A post-op x-ray may be taken to confirm the absence of tartar below the gum line after the deep cleaning.
After a deep cleaning, a re-evaluation appointment is scheduled four to six weeks later to assess improvements and perform a regular cleaning without numbing.
Following the re-evaluation, patients are recommended to return for cleanings every three months for at least the first year to maintain oral health.
Consistent home care and dental appointments are crucial to prevent tartar buildup and maintain gum health after a deep cleaning.
The dental hygienist emphasizes the importance of personal oral care routines and regular dental checkups in maintaining a healthy mouth post deep cleaning.
Transcripts
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