Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a crucial procedure for treating gum disease (periodontitis). While incredibly effective in improving oral health, some patients notice gaps between their teeth after the procedure. This isn't always a cause for alarm, but understanding the potential reasons is essential. This comprehensive guide explores why gaps might appear after deep cleaning and outlines what you can do.
What is Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
Before delving into the potential for gaps, let's briefly explain deep cleaning. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar (calculus) from both the teeth and below the gum line. Traditional cleaning focuses primarily on the visible surfaces of teeth. Deep cleaning goes deeper, addressing the root surfaces where bacteria accumulate, contributing to gum disease. The root planing aspect smoothes the tooth roots to help prevent further bacterial attachment.
Why Do Gaps Appear After Deep Cleaning?
The appearance of gaps after deep cleaning isn't directly caused by the procedure itself, but rather by pre-existing conditions that the cleaning might reveal or exacerbate. Here are the most common reasons:
Gum Recession
This is the most frequent cause. Gum disease causes inflammation and infection, leading to gum recession – the gums pulling away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth structure and potentially creating the illusion or reality of gaps. Deep cleaning, while beneficial in treating the disease, might expose existing recession that was previously hidden under inflamed gums.
Bone Loss
Severe gum disease can result in bone loss around the teeth. The bone provides support to the teeth, and its loss can loosen teeth and create spaces between them. Deep cleaning helps manage the infection, preventing further bone loss, but it doesn't reverse existing bone loss.
Pre-existing Tooth Movement
Sometimes, teeth may already be slightly misaligned before the deep cleaning. The inflammation from gum disease can mask this, and the deep cleaning, by reducing swelling, reveals the pre-existing spacing.
Loose Teeth
Advanced gum disease can significantly weaken the support structures around the teeth, making them loose. While deep cleaning aims to stabilize the situation, very loose teeth might appear to have more space between them after the procedure, as the supporting structures are still compromised.
What Happens If I Have Gaps After Deep Cleaning?
Don't panic! The appearance of gaps doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine the best course of action. It's crucial to continue excellent oral hygiene, follow your dentist’s instructions, and attend follow-up appointments.
Will the Gaps Close?
In some cases, particularly with mild gum recession, the gaps might partially close as the gums heal and the inflammation subsides. However, significant bone loss or severe gum recession often requires further intervention.
What Treatments Are Available?
Depending on the severity and cause of the gaps, various treatments might be considered:
- Gum grafting: This procedure involves taking gum tissue from another area of the mouth and grafting it onto the areas with recession, helping to cover exposed tooth roots and potentially reduce the appearance of gaps.
- Bone grafting: If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting might be necessary to restore support around the teeth.
- Orthodontics: In cases of minor misalignment contributing to the appearance of gaps, orthodontics (braces or aligners) could be used to reposition teeth.
- Dental Implants: If teeth have become severely loose or lost due to gum disease, dental implants might be considered to replace them.
How Can I Prevent Gaps After Deep Cleaning?
While not all gap formation is preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by prioritizing oral health:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash as directed by your dentist.
- Regular dental check-ups: Attend regular check-ups and professional cleanings to catch and treat gum disease early.
- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of gum disease and bone loss.
- Manage underlying health conditions: Conditions like diabetes can exacerbate gum disease.
Conclusion
The appearance of gaps after deep cleaning is often linked to pre-existing gum disease and its consequences. While it can be concerning, it's crucial to remember that deep cleaning itself doesn't directly cause gaps. Open communication with your dentist is key to understanding the cause of any gaps and developing a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits are your best defense against gum disease and its potential complications.
