Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Painful?
When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned? This procedure is essential to keep your teeth clean and healthy. Good oral hygiene involves flossing and brushing your teeth properly, but over time, you may also need to have your teeth cleaned at a dentist's office to complement your dental hygiene routine. Some people are afraid of having this procedure done because they think it might be painful or that it won't make a difference. See below the importance of cleaning your teeth, how it's done, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is dental prophylaxis?
Deep teeth cleaning includes supragingival scaling and prophylaxis. Scaling is the removal of tartar and dental prophylaxis is polishing and cleaning. This procedure must be done to remove bacterial plaque, as well as tartar and even some superficial stains on the teeth. This is achieved through polishing, bicarbonate jets, and the application of fluoride when indicated. It is worth noting that the treatment must only be carried out by a qualified professional and in a suitable dental office.
The goal of scaling and prophylaxis is to prevent gum disease and inflammation. It also helps with the aesthetics of your smile, as your teeth become whiter, and your gums look healthier. It is worth mentioning that this treatment can also help maintain good-smelling breath.
What types of dental cleaning are done in the office?
Dental cleaning is not the same for everyone. After an evaluation with your dentist, he or she will determine which technique is most appropriate for your needs. Here are some commonly used techniques:
Tartarectomy
This is the first step in dental cleaning and should be performed on patients who have tartar, which is calcified bacterial plaque. Once it adheres to the tooth enamel, it cannot be removed with just a toothbrush or dental floss. In this case, the dentist will use ultrasound or a curette to scrape the area.
Sodium bicarbonate jet
At this stage, the dentist will perform a deep cleaning with jets to finish removing pigments or bacterial plaque. This procedure also contributes to polishing the teeth.
Professional brushing
If necessary, the dentist will clean your teeth with a professional toothbrush and toothpaste. This procedure can also be completed by flossing and using mouthwash, which are also only available in dental offices.
Fluoride application
This can be considered the last step in dental prophylaxis. The application of fluoride, when indicated, guarantees prolonged protection of the teeth, regulates breath, and promotes tooth strengthening.
Is the procedure painful?
Not all procedures performed in a dental office cause pain. In the case of dental cleaning, the patient may feel slight discomfort when the tartar is scraped off, but this is minimal.
If you are very sensitive or have gum inflammation, the discomfort may be a little greater. However, if necessary, we can apply a small amount of anesthesia to relieve the discomfort.
Furthermore, despite this possibility, the process is generally comfortable, helping to ensure the well-being of patients. This comfort is partly due to the fact that the procedure is minimally invasive, affecting only the surface of the teeth.
In Conclusion
Dental deep cleaning is an important part of your oral hygiene. While it can sometimes be mildly uncomfortable, it will help you avoid more uncomfortable dental work later, as it prevents tooth decay and gum recession. We will do our best to make you as comfortable as possible during this procedure. Call us today to make an appointment!