Gums Healing After Deep Teeth Cleaning
Many patients have understandable concerns about the discomfort they may experience, and the healing process involved following deep teeth cleaning. The healing timeline will vary with each patient, but the most important determinant for how long your healing process will take is the severity of any issues you may be experiencing.
During your routine cleanings, a comprehensive examination will be performed to assess your current oral health. This exanimation typically involves your periodontist checking for the following:
- Signs of gum disease: Your periodontist will examine the health of your gums and the underlying bone, looking for any early signs of periodontitis.
- Signs of tooth decay: Specialized tools will be used to detect any cavities on the surface of your teeth.
- Assess restorations: Any fillings, crowns, or other dental work will be inspected and repaired if needed.
- Oral cancer screening: A critical services where your periodontist will examine your lips, gums, throat, neck, and face for any signs of oral cancer.
Regular cleanings are for patients who do not show any signs of infection, periodontal disease, or significant gum issues. If your gums are healthy and exhibit no bleeding or pocketing, a traditional cleaning will be sufficient to maintain your oral health. For these types of cleanings, your periodontist will conduct a thorough examination followed by the removal of plaque and tartar through cleaning, flossing, and polishing. Although practicing good home care can significantly minimize tartar buildup, stubborn plaque can accumulate in hard-to-reach places that only a professional cleaning can address.
If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend a more specialized treatment known as deep teeth cleaning or scaling and root planing. This procedure involves meticulously cleaning the visible and hidden areas around the gumline, addressing deeper pockets where plaque and tartar may accumulate. These deeper gum pockets can lead to complications such as gum recession, inflammation, infection, or even tooth loss, which is why thorough deep cleanings can be such an important process in preserving oral health.
After undergoing a scaling and root planing procedure, patients often wonder how long it will take for their gums to heal. Generally, the healing period can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s oral health practices post-treatment. Be sure to follow your dentist’s aftercare advice, which typically includes maintaining good oral hygiene at home—brushing and flossing twice daily and potentially using a water flosser or antimicrobial rinses.
To prevent a recurrence of periodontal disease and ensure your gums heal properly, scheduling follow-up periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months is highly recommended. The frequency may vary based on factors like how quickly plaque builds up and the overall health of your gums. By committing to excellent daily oral care and keeping up with regular maintenance, you can not only promote the healing of your gums but also significantly lower your risk of severe health issues linked to periodontal problems.
If you have questions regarding gum healing or the difference between regular cleanings and deep cleanings, do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist or periodontist for personalized guidance.