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What is a Deep Cleaning and Why Do I Need It? Atlanta, GA
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Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your smile healthy, but sometimes, regular cleanings and at-home care aren’t enough to prevent gum disease. In cases where gum health is compromised, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning. But what exactly is a deep cleaning, and why is it necessary?

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta, we provide expert care for all levels of oral health, including deep cleanings (also known as scaling and root planing) to address the early stages of gum disease. Let’s explore what this procedure involves, when it’s recommended, and how it benefits your long-term dental health.

What is a Deep Cleaning?

deep cleaning is a specialized dental procedure that goes beyond the typical cleaning you receive during your routine dental visits. While a standard cleaning focuses on the surface of your teeth and gumline, a deep cleaning targets the areas below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar that have accumulated on the roots of your teeth.

This process, known as scaling and root planing, involves two key steps:

  1. Scaling: The dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and from beneath the gumline, targeting areas that are not accessible during regular cleanings.
  2. Root Planing: After scaling, the roots of the teeth are smoothed out (planed) to help prevent further bacteria buildup and to allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.

Deep cleanings are typically recommended for patients who show signs of gum disease, especially when pockets between the gums and teeth have deepened. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen, potentially leading to bone loss and tooth loss.

Why Would You Need a Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleanings are recommended for patients with periodontal disease (gum disease). Gum disease starts with gingivitis, where the gums become inflamed and may bleed easily. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that damages the bone supporting the teeth.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 47% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease, making it one of the most common oral health issues. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup that leads to infection in the gum tissue, and it can have serious consequences for your overall health if not addressed.

Key Signs That You May Need a Deep Cleaning:

  • Bleeding gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it may be a sign of gum disease.
  • Receding gums: As gums pull away from the teeth, it creates pockets where bacteria can accumulate.
  • Persistent bad breath: Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria buildup in the gums.
  • Loose teeth: In advanced stages of gum disease, teeth can become loose as the supporting bone is damaged.

If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, a deep cleaning may be necessary to restore your gum health and prevent further damage.

The Importance of Treating Gum Disease Early

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can also have far-reaching consequences for your overall health. Research has linked gum disease to serious conditions such as heart diseasediabetes, and stroke. In fact, the American Academy of Periodontology states that individuals with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular problems.

By addressing gum disease early with a deep cleaning, you can avoid the progression of periodontitis, protect your teeth from damage, and reduce your risk of systemic health issues.

The Deep Cleaning Procedure: What to Expect

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta, we ensure that your deep cleaning procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

  1. Initial Assessment: Dr. Suway or one of our dental hygienists will assess the health of your gums by measuring the depth of the pockets around your teeth. If pockets are deeper than 4 millimeters, it’s a sign that gum disease is present and a deep cleaning is necessary.
  2. Scaling: The dentist or hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline. Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area and ensure your comfort.
  3. Root Planing: The root surfaces are smoothed out to help the gums reattach to the teeth and prevent future bacteria buildup.
  4. Post-Care: After the procedure, we will provide you with instructions on how to care for your gums as they heal. You may be prescribed a special mouth rinse to help keep your mouth clean and free from bacteria during the healing process.

Deep cleanings are often completed over two visits to ensure that all areas of the mouth are properly treated. Afterward, we may recommend more frequent follow-up visits to monitor your gum health and prevent future issues.

Why Choose Dr. Wayne Suway for Your Deep Cleaning?

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care for every patient. Dr. Suway has over 30 years of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, and his dedication to patient care has earned him numerous awards, including recognition as a Top Dentist in Atlanta.

Our team in Marietta uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your deep cleaning procedure is thorough, effective, and as comfortable as possible. We understand the importance of treating gum disease early to protect your oral and overall health, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Protect Your Oral Health Today

If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to undergo a deep cleaning, don’t wait to seek treatment. A deep cleaning can prevent further damage to your teeth and gums and improve your overall health. At Dr. Wayne Suway’s dental practice in Marietta, we’re here to help you achieve a healthier smile.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how a deep cleaning can benefit your oral health.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Wayne G. Suway

1820 The Exchange SE, #600
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: (770) 953-1752

FAX: (770) 953-6470

Mon - Thu: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Closed for lunch: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM