Do Your Teeth Deserve a Deep Spring Cleaning?

Posted on 5/1/2025 by Smile Makers Dental Center Office

A woman smiling brightly in the dentist chair with a bib on, waiting for her first dental appointment.

As the flowers bloom and the days get longer, many of us feel the urge to clean and refresh our surroundings. But have you considered giving your smile the same spring cleaning treatment? Regular teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health, but sometimes, even with diligent brushing and flossing, a deeper clean is necessary.

Why Teeth Need a Deep Cleaning

A regular teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth after you eat, and it contains bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.

While regular cleanings are effective in removing most plaque and tartar, sometimes this buildup can extend below the gum line, where it can be difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss. This deeper buildup can lead to more serious problems like gum disease, which can damage the tissues and bones that support your teeth.

Benefits of a Deep Cleaning

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more thorough cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line. This procedure can help to prevent and treat gum disease and can also improve the appearance of your smile.

Here are some of the benefits of getting a deep cleaning:

•	Prevents gum disease: By removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, deep cleaning helps to prevent the development of gum disease.
•	Treats gum disease: Deep cleaning can also be used to treat gum disease that has already developed.
•	Improves oral health: Deep cleaning removes bacteria and toxins that can contribute to oral health problems.
•	Freshens breath: Deep cleaning can help to eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria.
•	Improves the appearance of your smile: Deep cleaning can remove stains and brighten your teeth.

Who Needs a Deep Cleaning?

Not everyone needs a deep cleaning. However, if you have any of the following signs or symptoms, you may be a candidate for this procedure:

•	Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
•	Receding gums
•	Loose teeth
•	Persistent bad breath
•	Deep pockets between your teeth and gums

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist for an evaluation. They will be able to determine if you need a deep cleaning and discuss the best course of treatment for you.

Oral Care Beyond Deep Cleaning

While a deep cleaning can be beneficial, it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing twice a day is still the best way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

In addition to regular cleanings, there are a few things you can do at home to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

•	Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.
•	Floss once a day.
•	Use an antiseptic mouthwash.
•	Eat a healthy diet.
•	Avoid smoking and tobacco use.
•	See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

By following these tips, you can keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come.

Bailey's Crossroads

5659 Columbia Pike, Ste 100
Falls Church, VA
(571) 648-1711
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Falls Church, VA
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Fairfax, VA
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Leesburg, VA
(540) 882-0421
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Tysons, VA
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Woodbridge, VA
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Smile Makers Dental Center, 19 Catoctin Cir NE, Leesburg, VA 20176 - (540) 882-0421 - smilemakerscenter.com - 5/14/2025 - Tags: dentist va -