Dental Deep Cleaning and Consultation

A healthy smile is more than just looking good, it’s also about keeping your whole body healthy. Poor oral health has been linked to problems like heart disease and diabetes, which shows how closely your mouth and body are connected. [1] 

Even if you brush and floss every day, plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can still build up on your teeth. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed with just a toothbrush at home. [2]  When tartar builds up, it increases your risk of gum disease and other dental issues.

Deep dental cleaning, sometimes referred to as scaling and root planing, can help with this. It’s a professional treatment designed to remove tartar and bacteria from below the gumline, helping to stop gum disease from getting worse. [3] 

At Cali Family Dental in Pico Rivera, CA, we provide professional dental deep cleaning and consultation to help you maintain a healthy smile. If you’ve been searching for dental deep cleaning near me, our caring team is here to guide you toward better oral health.

Good oral health is an essential part of overall well-being, and one of the best ways to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy is through regular dental cleanings and consultations. Regular checkups allow your dentist Dr. Rafaat to keep an eye on your oral hygiene, identify potential problems early, and provide the necessary treatments to prevent more serious issues down the road.

What Is a Dental Deep Cleaning?

A dental deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a special type of cleaning that goes deeper than your regular checkup cleaning. Instead of just cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, it removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline where harmful bacteria like to hide. [4] 

Unlike a standard cleaning that focuses on polishing your teeth and clearing away surface buildup, a deep cleaning also smooths the roots of your teeth. This helps your gums reattach to your teeth and makes it harder for bacteria to grow in the future.

Deep cleaning is especially helpful for patients with signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or heavy tartar buildup that can’t be brushed away at home.

Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning

Sometimes, gum disease can sneak up without causing obvious pain. Many people don’t realize they need a dental deep cleaning until a dentist points it out during an exam. That’s why regular checkups are so important.

Here are some common signs that you may need a deep cleaning:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing: Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed often. Bleeding can be an early sign of gum disease. [5]

Gum recession or sensitivity: When gums pull back, your teeth may look longer and feel more sensitive. [7]

Bad breath that doesn’t go away: Ongoing bad breath can happen when bacteria build up under the gums. [6]

Loose teeth in advanced cases: If gum disease is not treated, it can damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth, leading to looseness or even tooth loss.

If you notice any of these signs, or even if you’re unsure, it’s always best to schedule a consultation. Catching gum problems early can save your teeth and protect your overall health.

Benefits of Dental Deep Cleaning

A dental deep cleaning does more than just make your smile look good—it helps protect your overall oral health in the long run. Here are some key benefits:

Prevents gum disease from getting worse: By removing tartar and bacteria from below the gumline, deep cleaning helps stop gum disease from advancing into more serious stages

Protects against tooth loss: Gum disease is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. Treating it early with deep cleaning can help keep your natural teeth strong and in place.

Improves breath freshness: Removing bacteria buildup under the gums can reduce bad breath and leave your mouth feeling cleaner. [6]

Supports long-term oral health: Deep cleaning helps your gums heal and reattach to your teeth, making it harder for bacteria to return. This sets the foundation for healthier teeth and gums over time. [8]

The Importance of Preventive Care

Preventive care is all about catching potential dental issues early before they become serious, painful, or costly to treat. As a rule of thumb, everyone should visit their dentist about twice a year for regular cleanings and exams. These visits are designed to keep your teeth and gums in top shape by removing built-up plaque, checking for early signs of decay or gum disease, and addressing any concerns you may have about your oral health.

During Your Visit

During your visit, you can expect Dr. Rafaat or a hygienist of the Cali Family Dental team to thoroughly clean your teeth, providing a deeper clean than what can be achieved with home brushing and flossing alone. This professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that may have accumulated in hard-to-reach areas, which can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone. While plaque is soft and sticky and can be easily removed by regular brushing, tartar is hardened plaque that has built up over time, often requiring special tools to remove.

By getting regular cleanings, you’re helping to prevent problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Plus, these appointments give Dr. Rafaat the opportunity to spot any early signs of oral health issues that you might not notice, like cavities or gum recession. The earlier these problems are caught, the easier they are to treat, which ultimately saves you time, money, and potential discomfort.

Did You Know?

Despite the importance of regular dental visits, many Americans are not keeping up with their dental care. According to a 2022 study from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), only 63.7% of Americans aged 65 and older visited the dentist in the past 12 months. Dental health should be a priority throughout your life, not just during childhood or when problems arise. Regular checkups are important at every age to ensure that your teeth and gums stay in optimal health.

What To Expect During a Deep Cleaning and Consultation

1. Initial Consultation: During your appointment, Dr. Rafaat will begin with a conversation about your oral health. He may ask about any problems you’ve been experiencing, such as tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or pain. This is a great time to bring up any questions or concerns you may have about your oral care routine.
2. Examination of Teeth and Gums: Dr. Rafaat will carefully examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. This includes checking for cavities, looking for signs of infection, and examining the gums for any indications of gum recession or bleeding.
3. X-Rays: If it’s your first visit in a while, Dr. Rafaat and his team may take X-rays to get a more comprehensive view of your teeth and bone structure. X-rays help Dr. Rafaat spot issues that are not visible during a visual examination, such as cavities between teeth or bone loss around the tooth roots.
4. Professional Cleaning: Next, Dr. Rafaat or a dental hygienist will perform the cleaning, which involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Special instruments are used to scrape away any hardened plaque on the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. After the plaque and tartar are removed, your teeth will be polished to remove any surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
5. Treatment Recommendations: After your cleaning, Dr. Rafaat will discuss any findings and provide treatment recommendations. This might include addressing areas of concern, such as filling cavities, treating gum disease, or scheduling follow-up visits. Dr. Rafaat will provide tips for improving your at-home oral care routine, ensuring that you can maintain the results of your cleaning and prevent future issues.

Common Questions About Deep Cleanings

Do I really need a deep cleaning?

Yes. Even if you brush and floss diligently, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in places that are hard to reach, like between your teeth or along your gum line. Over time, this buildup can lead to decay and gum disease. Professional cleanings are the best way to ensure that these areas are thoroughly cleaned, and they also provide an opportunity for Dr. Rafaat to identify potential problems early.

Is dental deep cleaning painful?

Most patients feel little to no pain during a deep cleaning. Your dentist may use a local anesthetic to numb the area and keep you comfortable. Some mild soreness after the procedure is normal but usually goes away quickly.

How long does the procedure take?

 A deep cleaning is often done in two visits, with each session focusing on one side of your mouth. This allows your dentist to be thorough while keeping you comfortable. [9] 

How often should I get a deep cleaning?

Deep cleanings aren’t needed as often as regular checkups. For many patients, one deep cleaning is enough, followed by routine dental cleanings every 6 months. However, people with gum disease may need more frequent visits to keep their gums healthy. [10] 

What if I haven’t been to the dentist in a while?

If it’s been a while since your last visit, don’t worry. Dr. Rafaat will work with you to catch up on your oral care, providing a thorough cleaning and exam. It’s never too late to start taking care of your teeth and gums, and the sooner you schedule your appointment, the sooner you can get back on track with your oral health.

Don’t Forget To Keep Up Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

After your deep cleaning, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash to help remove any remaining bacteria. Choosing water over sugary drinks and eating a balanced diet can also help protect your teeth and gums. Remember to schedule your next dental checkup according to your Dr. Rafaat’s recommendations. By staying on top of your oral care routine, you can ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Cali Family Dental is Here to Help You Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums

A dental deep cleaning and consultation is a vital part of maintaining good oral health. By visiting your dentist Dr. Rafaat regularly, you can prevent oral health issues before they become serious problems and keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come. If it’s time for your next cleaning or consultation, call 562-656-2020 today to schedule an appointment at Cali Family Dental in Pico Rivera. We’re here to help you achieve optimal oral health and a smile you can be proud of.