Deep Cleaning Specialist
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Dr. Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS and Associates
Orthodontics & General Dentistry located in Fairfax, VA & Sterling, VA
Gums that seem to pull away from the surfaces of your teeth to form small pockets are a good indication that you need a deep cleaning. At the offices of Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS, located in Fairfax and Sterling, Virginia, you can get a thorough deep cleaning plus tips for better oral health. To schedule an appointment to see if you need a deep cleaning to treat gum disease, call Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS, or book online today.
Deep Cleaning Q&A
What is a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning at the dentist is more than just a standard dental exam and cleaning visit. You might need a deep cleaning if your oral hygiene routine isn’t up to par and your oral health is at risk or compromised as a result.
During a deep cleaning, Dr. Gaitan meticulously removes the buildup of plaque and tartar from your teeth surfaces and along the gumline. When bacteria builds up on your teeth, it forms the sticky film you know as plaque. You can remove a lot of plaque with diligent brushing, but some of it firms up into a hard substance called tartar.
What does a deep cleaning involve?
To remove plaque and tartar during a deep cleaning, Dr. Gaitan performs these steps:
Scaling
Scaling is the physical removal of the buildup of plaque and tartar from around and below the gumline. Dr. Gaitan carefully uses a sharp tool to scrape it away.
Root planing
During root planing, Dr. Gaitan reaches below the gumline to smooth your tooth’s root. This helps your gum tissue reattach to the tooth after gum recession has happened.
After scaling and possibly root planing your teeth, Dr. Gaitan may prescribe antibiotics to reduce your risk of infection. This is because a deep cleaning has the potential to release bacteria into your system, and you’re at an especially high risk if you have a compromised immune system.
What are the benefits of a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning does more than preserving your oral health, specifically the health of your gums. Other advantages include:
- Less odorous breath
- Improved soft tissue healing in the mouth
- Less risk for an infection that spreads throughout your body
- Stopping gum recession
- Protecting the roots of your teeth
If you have any concerns about your upcoming deep cleaning, Dr. Gaitan can tell you more about the procedure and the important reasons for getting it.
When should I get a deep cleaning?
You should consider getting a deep cleaning if you’re experiencing signs of gum disease. These include:
- Gum inflammation
- Frequent bleeding
- Gum recession
- Lots of plaque and tartar buildup
It might not occur to you at first that some of your symptoms are linked with poor oral health. You might not notice any symptoms at all. This is why it’s important to come in for regular dental exams.
Dr. Gaitan can help you schedule a deep cleaning if you need one. He can also work with you to improve your oral hygiene routine.
If you have possible signs of gum disease and would like to know if you need a deep cleaning, call either Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS, office, or book online today.
