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Sometimes called sleep dentistry, sedation dentistry is actually generally performed in a state of deep relaxation. The patient is able to respond to questions and follow basic directions. Performed by dentists with special training, it’s often used when deep, beneath the gum tooth cleaning is needed. The great news is that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure and you won’t remember it afterwards.

What exactly is deep teeth cleaning? Is it different from the twice a year teeth cleaning and polishing we’re all familiar with? Yes, it is. Deep tooth cleaning is necessary when “deep pockets” open around the tooth roots due to excessive plaque deposits. These deposits create an ideal home for the development of bacteria, which can attack the bones your teeth are anchored to. If not treated quickly, bone shrinkage and periodontal disease is the end result.

We are used to calling this condition gum disease, but actually, it is much more serious than that blanket term implies. It refers to inflammation of the membrane lining of the tooth socket and is a primary cause of tooth loss in adults. It can also lead to other serious illnesses if left untreated, and has been linked to heart attacks, among others.

Depending on the extent of the situation, deep cleaning an entire mouth can take several hours of difficult and nerve-racking chair time. Sometimes, dentists will split the job up into two or more sessions, since it is painful and wearing to keep the mouth open for such a long time. The development of sedation dentistry has not only helped patients who need extensive remedial work, but also helps those who have phobis about going to the dentist.

Regular tooth cleaning also serves as a major way to help prevent oral cancer. It may be shocking to find out that every hour in the U.S. a person dies from this disease. Dentists look for early signs of this dangerous condition at every exam; thus providing a very strong motivation to keep those appointments. The check up is generally fast and painless, so should not be overlooked.

Fortunately, good oral health is pretty much a do-it-yourself project, with the able assistance of your dentist. We’ve heard the mantra since early childhood – brush twice a day, floss; see your dentist for regular checkups. Here’s why all these directives are important:

•    Proper brushing gets rid of food particles and plaque, a sticky bacteria-laden film – from the teeth

•    Flossing gets rid of food particles and plaque from between the teeth

•    Regular checkups and cleaning allow your dentist to remove plaque, calculus (not an advanced form of math, but excess, hardened plaque and food particles that build up around the gums) and stains and also reveals early stage tooth decay and oral cancer.

This good dental hygiene should eliminate the need for heavy duty deep tooth cleaning, but if not, it is good to know that sedation dentistry is available to keep you comfortable during the process.

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