This is the most frequently asked question by patients. Dental cleaning is also known as Scaling or oral prophylaxis. It is a preventive treatment in which we remove tartar (mineralized plaque) that may develop in areas not accessible to brushing.

 

Are our teeth cleaning necessary?

The answer is Yes. If we don’t remove tartar, its deposition will continue. As the layer of tartar thickens, gums and bones start receding due to inflammation also known as pyorrhoea. Eventually, if the pockets become deep enough, teeth can become loose and may even be lost.

 

How often should teeth scaling be done?

 

It varies from person to person depending upon the rate of tartar formation. Few may require 6 monthly, others might require annually. In some patients, oral prophylaxis is not required even after 2 years. In general, you should visit a dentist every 6 months for a routine dental check-up.

 

Types of dental cleaning

It is of two types’ oral prophylaxis and deep cleaning. In oral prophylaxis, we clean the tooth, gum line and sides of the teeth. However, in deep teeth cleaning, we continue to remove tartar buildup down below the gum line to the root of the tooth. Deep cleaning is generally required in patients with advanced gum disease whether due to oral hygiene neglect or any systemic disease like diabetes.

 

Do teeth clean hurt?

No, it doesn’t hurt. In oral prophylaxis, You might feel little vibrations or slight sensitivity during the procedure. It is better if you start sensitive toothpaste 1 week before oral prophylaxis. In complete dental solutions, we do deep cleaning under anesthesia to keep you comfortable.

 

How long for gums to heal after deep cleaning?

Generally, it takes 4 weeks for healing to be complete but you have to follow the instructions thoroughly including strict oral hygiene, warm saline rinses and application of prescribed ointments.

 

Can your teeth shift after deep cleaning?

No, teeth don’t shift but may feel loose after a deep cleaning. That is due to gum recession, these teeth don’t have enough support to be stable in the mouth as they were splinted by tartar. Deep cleaning does not remove the tooth’s attachment to the gum and bone, only aims to halt that infection. Once the plaque and food particles are cleaned out, your gums will begin to heal themselves and re-form the tight seal around your teeth within six to eight weeks and mobility disappears in most cases.

Are Teeth sensitive weeks after cleaning?

After oral prophylaxis, the sensitivity might develop and this usually subsides in a day or two. After a deep cleaning, you may have pain for a day or two and teeth sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and bleed.