When it comes to maintaining a bright, healthy smile, preventing dental issues is the way to go. But if you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?” you’re not alone. Deciding between the two can feel like navigating a maze of dental jargon, but fear not – Dr. Julie Glud is here to break it down for you.
Yearly cleanings are the best way to keep your smile in optimal working order. So, schedule your next preventive dentistry appointment at Dental Care of Lombard today! You can reach our dental office in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 for booking and information now.
If you’ve ever contemplated, “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?” keep reading. In this blog, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of which cleaning is right for you and how both options benefit your dental health.
What Is a Normal Cleaning?
Let’s start with the basics. A normal cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is the routine dental cleaning that most people are familiar with. If you’re diligent about your oral hygiene and visit our dentist in Lombard, IL, regularly, this is the type of cleaning you’re likely getting.
A normal cleaning utilizes specialized tools to gently lift plaque from teeth before buffing them with an enamel-safe polish. It’s like giving your teeth a spa treatment!
Benefits of a Normal Cleaning
There are a few notable benefits of regular dental cleanings, including:
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Plaque removal is crucial because plaque can harden into tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone. Once tartar sets in, caring for your smile becomes much harder. So, keeping plaque at bay is key to a healthy, happy smile.
Polishing
After your teeth are free from plaque and tartar, our team polishes to remove surface stains, leaving your smile looking brighter and fresher.
Early Detection
Regular cleanings also give Dr. Glud the chance to spot any early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other dental issues before they become serious problems.
How Often Should I Get a Normal Cleaning?
So, how often should you get a normal cleaning? Most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months. However, if you’re particularly prone to plaque buildup, Dr. Glud may suggest more frequent visits.
But what if you need something more? That’s when the question “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?” becomes particularly important.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is more intensive than a normal cleaning. Dentists typically recommend it if you have signs of gum disease, such as inflamed gums or deep pockets around your teeth.
If Dr. Glud has suggested a deep cleaning, it’s likely because plaque and tartar have made their way below the gumline, where they can cause more severe damage.
Benefits of a Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is perfect for patients who need a little extra help managing or preventing oral health issues. Here are some benefits of scaling and root planing:
Gum Disease Treatment
Deep cleanings are essential for treating and managing gum disease. By cleaning below the gumline, this procedure helps to remove bacteria and tartar that are contributing to gum inflammation and infection.
Preventing Tooth Loss
When it comes to adulthood tooth loss, gum disease is a primary contributor. By addressing gum disease early with a deep cleaning, you can help prevent this from happening.
Healthier Gums
After a deep cleaning, your gums have a chance to heal and re-conform to the teeth, reducing pocket depth and creating a healthier environment in your mouth.
How Often Should I Get a Deep Cleaning?
Whether you need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning, maintaining a regular schedule is key to keeping your smile healthy. For normal cleanings, every six months is generally the gold standard. But what about deep cleanings?
After a deep cleaning, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to monitor your progress. This could mean coming back in three to four months to ensure that your gums are healing properly and that there’s no return of deep pockets or gum disease.
How Do I Know If I Need a Deep Cleaning or Normal Cleaning?
Now that you know what each type of cleaning involves, you might still be wondering, “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?” Here are a few factors to consider:
Gum Health
If your gums are healthy, and you’re not experiencing any bleeding or inflammation, a normal cleaning is likely sufficient. However, if your gums are red, swollen, or get bloody when you floss or brush, it may be a sign that you need a deep cleaning.
Pocket Depth
During a dental exam, Dr. Glud or your friendly hygienist will measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth. Normal pockets are shallow, but if yours measure more than 4mm, it’s a sign that a deep cleaning might be necessary.
X-rays
Sometimes, Dr. Glud will take X-rays to check for bone loss around your teeth. If bone loss is detected, it’s another indicator that a deep cleaning could be beneficial.
If any of these conditions apply to you, it might be time to ask our dentist in Lombard, IL, “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?”
The Final Decision: Deep Cleaning or Normal Cleaning?
Ultimately, the decision of whether you need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning is best made in consultation with Dr. Glud. Our Lombard dentist can assess your oral health and provide a recommendation based on her findings.
Remember, while normal cleanings are great for maintenance, deep cleanings are crucial for treating and preventing more serious issues like gum disease.
Keep Your Smile Shining Brightly at Dental Care of Lombard
In the quest to answer the age-old question, “Do I need a deep cleaning or normal cleaning?” it’s important to consider your individual dental needs. Both types of cleanings offer significant benefits, and understanding when each is necessary can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
Learn more about what your smile needs to thrive with a check-up at Dental Care of Lombard. Request appointments online, or call our Lombard, IL, dental clinic at (630) 629-5700 for scheduling.
