Being able to restore your teeth with fillings, crowns and the like means nothing if we can’t keep them and the surrounding tissue healthy.
That’s why dental hygiene therapy – known as prophylaxis in industry terms – we provide all of our patients is so critical to your oral health, not to mention your overall well-being.
Regular dental cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, helps in removing plaque, bacteria, and extrinsic stains from your teeth. It is done by a qualified dental hygienist.
This cleaning is usually not done under the gums (sub-gingival) as it is not always necessary for healthy patients. For most healthy patients we recommend getting a regular cleaning every six months. During these visits, your dentist will also perform an oral examination to assess the health of your teeth, gums, and the surrounding tissue. We may also take x-rays if needed. These visits usually last around an hour.
Periodontal disease is a condition where the gums become infected by harmful bacteria within the mouth. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor oral hygiene, systemic diseases, genetics, and even pregnancy. The disease can vary in severity, ranging from a mild case of gingivitis, to inflamed gums with no permanent damage, to severe cases of periodontitis with significant bone loss, loss of gum attachment, or tooth loss due to the active infection. Sometimes, regular prophylaxis may not be enough to prevent periodontal disease.
For patients who need more than just a traditional dental cleaning but haven’t yet developed periodontitis, we recommend gingival scaling. This patient exhibits all the signs of moderate to severe gingivitis: bleeding gums, inflammation, moderate to heavy plaque – but no visible bone loss or major loss of gum attachment.
So what exactly does that entail? Gingival scaling removes tartar and bacteria above and a little below the gum line using hand-held instruments along with ultrasonic scalers. We then ask you to come back sooner than normal (usually 3-4 months) so our hygienists can diagnose your overall gum health and determine how well the scaling worked. Usually after this treatment, if your homecare has improved, the gingivitis is reversed and traditional dental cleanings can be performed going forward. If no changes are made and the gingivitis does not resolve we will recommend shorter periodontal recall visits, or potentially progress to more intensive treatment.
In these cases, depending on how far the periodontal disease has progressed, you may need a referral to a periodontist. We are thrilled to have 2-4 visits of active deep teeth cleaning therapy: Our hygienists will treat each quadrant of your mouth (upper left, lower right, etc.) separately. In these visits, any dental plaque, calculus and associated bacteria will be removed both above and below the gum line. A dental laser will also be utilized. During and after this deep teeth cleaning therapy, you’ll be given an antibiotic mouth rinse to use twice daily and detailed oral hygiene home care instructions. At each visit, your hygienist will also recheck and quickly sweep through the previously treated quadrants.
Getting a deep teeth cleaning can do wonders for your oral health and improve your quality of life. This procedure can help you avoid gum disease and keep your teeth healthy and strong. It's a non-surgical treatment that targets early signs of gum disease, preventing further damage to your gums and teeth.
With Deep Teeth Cleaning Chicago patients can see the following benefits:
One major advantage of Deep Teeth Cleaning is that it doesn't require any surgery. This means that after the procedure, patients can typically go back to their normal activities right away. The recovery time is usually very short, so Deep Teeth Cleaning is a convenient and effective way to treat gum disease without needing surgery. It's not just good for your teeth and gums though - it can also help improve your overall health by reducing the risk of other health problems that can be caused by untreated gum disease. All in all, Deep Teeth Cleaning is an important part of keeping your mouth healthy and enjoying a better quality of life.
Determining candidacy for Deep Teeth Cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is typically based on an individual's oral health condition. This procedure is often recommended for individuals who exhibit signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis or early-stage periodontitis. Common indicators include swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and the presence of deep periodontal pockets. Deep Teeth Cleaning is particularly beneficial when there is a buildup of tartar and plaque below the gumline, leading to inflammation and potential infection. Age is not a strict factor for eligibility, as this treatment can be suitable for both adults and, in some cases, teenagers with advanced gum disease. However, the dentist will evaluate each patient's specific oral health status to determine the appropriateness of the procedure.
Contraindications or disqualifications for Deep Teeth Cleaning may arise in cases of certain health conditions or allergies. Patients with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications may require special consideration, and alternative treatments may be explored. Additionally, individuals with a known allergy to local anesthetics or specific dental materials should communicate this information to their dentist. Pregnant individuals may also need careful evaluation, and the timing of the procedure may be adjusted based on the stage of pregnancy.
At our practice in Chicago deep teeth cleaning is evaluated on an individual basis. Open communication with the dentist about your medical history and any potential concerns is essential in determining whether this treatment is suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision on candidacy for deep teeth cleaning is made carefully, considering each patient's unique needs and conditions.
After undergoing Deep Teeth Cleaning, patients should expect minimal downtime, with mild sensitivity and discomfort typically subsiding within a few days. It's crucial to avoid tobacco use and steer clear of hard or sticky foods immediately after the procedure to facilitate the healing process. Patients are advised to maintain a gentle yet consistent oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing and flossing, and an antimicrobial mouthwash may be recommended.
Follow-up appointments are essential for the hygienist to assess healing progress, and any signs of infection or persistent discomfort should be promptly reported. Lifestyle changes, such as improved dietary habits and smoking cessation, may be suggested for overall oral health improvement. By adhering to these aftercare guidelines, attending regular check-ups, and communicating openly with their dentist, patients can contribute to the long-term success of Deep Teeth Cleaning and maintain optimal oral health.
Begin your path to optimal oral health with Strobel Dentistry in Chicago. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional dental care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're in need of routine check-ups, cosmetic dentistry, or specialized treatments such as Deep Teeth Cleaning, Strobel Dentistry is your trusted partner. Give us a call at
Deep Teeth Cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a safe and routine dental procedure when performed by our hygienists. However, excessive or improper cleaning may potentially harm teeth, so it's crucial to trust experienced dental professionals to minimize any risks.
Patients may experience some discomfort during and after Deep Teeth Cleaning, such as sensitivity or mild soreness. However, local anesthesia is often used to minimize pain during the procedure, and any post-treatment discomfort is typically temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Local anesthesia is commonly administered during Deep Teeth Cleaning to numb the areas being treated, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient. In some cases, patients may opt for additional sedation methods, but this is typically discussed and agreed upon with the dentist based on individual preferences and the extent of the procedure.
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We are proud to offer exceptionally experienced, compassionate, and comprehensive Chicago dental care to our patients. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to take the first step toward your best experience and results.