During a routine dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will scrape off plaque and tartar build-up from your teeth and gum line. Special tools and ultrasonic scalers are used to remove the build-up of bacteria and debris that can cause tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.



The dentist will also polish the teeth to remove surface stains and smooth out rough spots. The cleaning process typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the level of build-up on the teeth.

Routine dental cleanings are typically recommended every six months for most patients, although your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have a history of gum disease or other dental issues.

The benefits of adult dental cleanings are mostly preventative, meaning when you get your teeth cleaned every six months or so, you significantly reduce the risk of developing issues like cavities.

More specifically, regular cleanings offer a plethora of benefits, including:

• Preventing cavities: Dental cleanings remove cavity-causing plaque and tartar from your teeth.
  
• Preventing gum disease: Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to inflammation and bleeding gums. Regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease or catch it early on when it is easier to treat.
  
• Freshening breath: Regular cleanings can help remove the bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
  
• Brightening your smile: Cleanings remove surface stains and discoloration from your teeth, making your smile brighter and whiter.
  
• Saving money: By preventing cavities and gum disease, regular cleanings can help you avoid costly dental procedures down the line.
  
• Improving overall health: Poor oral health has been linked to several systemic health issues, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Regular dental cleanings can help improve your overall health by reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Your dentist may recommend deep cleaning if you’re showing signs of gum disease or periodontitis, such as red, swollen or bleeding gums.

During a deep cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove heavy plaque and tartar from the surface of the tooth root and smooth out rough spots that can trap bacteria and cause further build-up. The tartar, which is mineralized and hardened plaque, is a rock-like substance that won’t come off with a regular cleaning or brushing your teeth at home. A deep cleaning not only gets rid of tartar but also helps eliminate bacteria and prevents further damage to the gums and teeth.

The procedure is usually done in two parts, one for each side of the mouth. Scraping under sensitive gums is more invasive than a standard cleaning, which is why some patients may require local anesthesia to ensure comfort.

The dentist or hygienist will also monitor your progress and may recommend additional treatments, such as antibiotics or follow-up visits, to help manage your gum disease. They may also recommend increasing the frequency of your standard cleanings temporarily (once every four months instead of once every six months).

There are several signs that may indicate you need a dental deep cleaning, including:

• Bleeding gums: If you notice bleeding when you brush or floss, it may be a sign of gum disease.
• Swollen or tender gums: If your gums feel puffy or sore, it may be a sign of inflammation due to gum disease.
• Bad breath: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease or other dental problems.
• Receding gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, it may be a sign of gum disease.
• Loose teeth: Gum disease can cause your teeth to become loose or shift out of place.
• Tartar buildup: If you have visible tartar buildup on your teeth, it may be a sign that you need a deep cleaning.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures: If your teeth are sensitive to temperature changes, it may be a sign of gum disease or other dental problems.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider scheduling an appointment with St. Hope Healthcare’s dentists. We can evaluate your teeth and gums and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include a deep cleaning or other procedures to address any underlying dental issues.

During the procedure, you may experience discomfort or sensitivity. However, your dentist or dental hygienist will take steps to ensure your comfort throughout the process. They may use a numbing gel or administer local anesthesia to the areas being treated, so you don't feel any pain during the procedure.



You may feel some pressure or vibration as the dental tools remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, but this process shouldn’t be unbearably painful if local anesthetics have been administered. If you experience too much discomfort during the procedure, let your dentist or hygienist know so they can adjust their technique or provide additional pain relief.

After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days as your gums heal. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help manage any discomfort.