If your dentist has recommended a “deep cleaning,” it’s normal to have questions, and maybe a little apprehension. Unlike a routine cleaning, a deep cleaning is a more involved procedure, but it’s also one of the most effective ways to treat early gum disease and protect your teeth long term. Here’s exactly what it involves.
What Is a Deep Cleaning, Exactly?
A deep cleaning, formally called scaling and root planing, is a two-part procedure designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline — areas a regular cleaning doesn’t reach.
- Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gumline, down to the root.
- Root planing smooths out the root surfaces afterward, making it harder for bacteria and tartar to reattach and giving your gums a smoother surface to reattach to as they heal.
Why Would You Need One?
A deep cleaning is typically recommended when your dentist or hygienist finds signs of gum disease, such as:
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Gum pockets deeper than 3mm (measured during your exam)
- Visible tartar buildup below the gumline
- Gum recession or tenderness
- Loose teeth or shifting bite, in more advanced cases
Catching and treating gum disease at this stage can prevent it from progressing to more serious issues, including bone and tooth loss.
Before Your Appointment
Your dentist will typically take X-rays and measure the depth of your gum pockets to determine the extent of the buildup and plan your treatment. In some cases, deep cleanings are done in two separate visits, one for each side of the mouth, to keep you more comfortable throughout.
What Happens During the Procedure
1. Numbing the area. Because the treatment goes below the gumline, your dentist will typically apply a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable throughout.
2. Scaling. Using specialized instruments (manual tools, ultrasonic devices, or both), your hygienist or dentist carefully removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and root, working below the gumline where a regular cleaning can’t reach.
3. Root planing. Once the buildup is removed, the root surface is smoothed out. This step helps your gums reattach more easily to the tooth and makes it more difficult for bacteria to build up again in the same spot.
4. Rinsing and aftercare instructions. After the procedure, the area is rinsed, and your dentist will walk you through what to expect during recovery.
Depending on the extent of the buildup, the full mouth may take one or two visits to complete.
What to Expect Afterward
Mild soreness, sensitivity, or slight gum tenderness for a few days is normal. Most people can return to regular activities right away, though your dentist may recommend:
- Rinsing with warm salt water
- Avoiding very hot, cold, or spicy foods for a day or two
- Sticking to softer foods while your gums heal
- Following any prescribed antibiotic or antimicrobial rinse, if recommended
Full healing typically takes about one to two weeks, and most patients notice healthier, less inflamed-looking gums once recovery is complete.
Why It’s Worth Doing
Left untreated, gum disease can progress from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to more advanced periodontal disease, which can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss over time. A deep cleaning addresses the problem early, often preventing the need for more invasive treatment down the road.
The Bottom Line
A deep cleaning is more thorough than a routine visit, but it’s a well-established, effective treatment for gum disease, and one that protects both your gums and your teeth for years to come. If your dentist recommends one, it’s worth taking seriously.
Have questions about whether you need a deep cleaning, or ready to schedule one? Contact Southridge Dental Care and our team will walk you through exactly what your smile needs.
