ANOTHER deep cleaning?!
Added: August 19, 2009 - 9:03 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Annandale, DC
Need Dentist / Specialist:
Yes
Provide Cost Estimate:
Yes
X-rays Available:
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Case Summary
Exam & Consultation
Crown
Gum Surgery
Teeth: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
Case Description
I visited a new dentist today and was recommended to have a deep cleaning. I just had a deep cleaning 10 months ago, and cannot understand why I was told to have yet another one. The new dentist was not aware of my dental history. I feel that deep cleaning is just another revenue making machine. I floss and brush every day, and get my teeth cleaned every 4-6 months. Can it be that deep cleaning doesn't help some people? I was also advised to have 2 new crowns in the upper right quadrant where I have a big gap and bone loss. The dentist said that this will help stop the bone loss. I just don't understand the connection. This entire thing just makes me want to cry in frustration. Please help!
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Reply: ANOTHER deep cleaning?!
added: August 20, 2009 - 6:11 AM
Cost Estimate: $ No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
I''''m sorry this is so frustrating for you. I will try to explain what might be going on. First, deep cleanings are recommended whenever the space between the tooth and gum is deeper than your toothbrush or floss can reach; 4mm or more. So the first step in determining if you need a deep cleaning is a process called periodontal probing, where the depth of the gum pocket is measured. Second, even if you had a deep cleaning 10 months ago and there was significant improvement, you may still need another deep cleaning if the gum pockets are still greater than 4mm. Third, after a deep cleaning, you still need to have periodontal maintenance done every 6-12 weeks until the gums improve. Only then should you go longer between cleanings. Finally, a gap between molars can cause food to catch, which feeds the bacteria which cause the bone loss. So it can make sense that correcting the situation could stop the bone loss. Best of luck. Dr. Rogers
Reply: ANOTHER deep cleaning?!
added: August 20, 2009 - 6:16 AM
Cost Estimate: $ No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
could be a number of explanations. Maybe you accumulate more plaque than other people and did not return for followup care/cleanings after the "deep cleaning." Could be, the hygienist did not get it all off at the first deep cleaning. Could be you floss and brush everyday, but improperly. You should get another opinion perhaps from a periodontist.
Reply: ANOTHER deep cleaning?!
added: August 20, 2009 - 9:44 AM
Cost Estimate: $175 consultation fee
I would be happy to give you a second opinion on whether you need crowns and periodontal treatment. Bring your radiographs from the office you just went to.
Reply: ANOTHER deep cleaning?!
added: August 20, 2009 - 10:52 AM
Cost Estimate: $ No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
Hello. My name is Dr. Smith. I am a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the care of gum tissue and supporting structures of the teeth. I also place dental implants and perform sedation dentistry for relaxation of my patients. I see that you may be concerned about your periodontal health. It is possible you may have periodontal disease that is not responding to the deep cleanings. I agree that many times Deep Scaling is a waste of time and money if it is not the most effective treatment. In most of these cases a periodontist is the right choice for you, so that you can at least get an expert opinion on what might be going on. Whether or not you choose my office it is in your best interest to see a periodontist soon to help you toward a healthy dental future. I would be most happy to meet with you to discuss your concerns, and to do a complete evaluation. No treatment will be done at this appointment. Treatment will not be started without your permission and full understanding of what is necessary and why. You can then have the peace of mind in knowing what your condition is, and what can be done about it. I also work with a GREAT team of family dentists that can help you with the crowns and other needs. I invite you to call my office at 703-894-4867 in VA or 301-638-4867 in MD. I take my commitment to serving patients needs very personally. I hope to hear from you!
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