What is a deep cleaning, and how is it different from a routine cleaning?
A deep cleaning is a treatment we call scaling and root planing. Unlike a routine dental cleaning, which is primarily preventive, scaling and root planing is used to treat periodontal disease.
Routine cleanings are generally performed when patients have healthy gums. When gum disease progresses and affects the supporting tissues around the teeth, we may recommend a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and help the gums heal.
When does a dentist recommend a deep cleaning?
We typically recommend a deep cleaning when a patient has periodontitis, a form of gum disease that affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
As bacteria and tartar accumulate beneath the gumline, periodontal pockets can develop, allowing inflammation and infection to affect the surrounding tissues. Over time, this can contribute to bone loss.
Scaling and root planing removes bacterial deposits from the root surfaces to help reduce inflammation and support gum healing.
What are the signs that you may need a deep cleaning?
Some common signs include persistent bad breath, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, and discomfort around the gums.
In more advanced cases, you may notice gum recession or teeth that are becoming loose because of damage to the supporting bone.
However, periodontal disease doesn't always cause noticeable symptoms. A dental examination is necessary to determine whether you need scaling and root planing or another type of periodontal treatment.
What happens during a deep dental cleaning?
When I recommend a deep cleaning, I'll explain the procedure and what you can expect. Our first priority is keeping you comfortable during treatment.
We may use a topical numbing gel or local anesthesia to help minimize sensitivity and discomfort. Then we'll carefully clean below the gumline, removing plaque and tartar from the root surfaces.
The procedure may take approximately 30 minutes to an hour per appointment, depending on how much treatment is needed. If you require a full-mouth deep cleaning, we may divide the treatment into two visits.
Afterward, we'll provide instructions for caring for your gums. We may recommend an antibacterial mouth rinse, gentle brushing and flossing, and avoiding very hot, spicy, or acidic foods while the tissues are sensitive.
Most patients experience relatively mild discomfort afterward and can return to their normal activities quickly. If needed, we may recommend an appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever.
What are the benefits of deep cleaning for gum disease?
One of the biggest benefits of deep cleaning is helping you preserve your natural teeth.
When periodontal disease progresses without treatment, inflammation and bacterial buildup can damage the bone supporting your teeth. Eventually, that damage can lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss.
Scaling and root planing helps control the disease by removing deposits from below the gumline and allowing the surrounding tissues to heal.
Another important benefit is addressing periodontal disease before it causes more extensive damage. Sometimes patients don't even realize they have gum disease because it can progress without significant pain.
By treating the condition and maintaining your periodontal health, we can help reduce the risk of additional bone loss and support the long-term health of your teeth.
What are the temporary side effects of deep cleaning?
After a deep cleaning, you may experience temporary gum tenderness, sensitivity, or mild bleeding. If local anesthesia was used, your mouth may also remain numb for a few hours.
Most discomfort improves within the first few days. Gentle brushing, flossing as instructed, and warm saltwater rinses may help keep the area clean while your gums heal.
If necessary, we may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, depending on your medical history.
Why do some patients notice gaps between their teeth after deep cleaning?
Some patients notice spaces between their teeth after a deep cleaning, particularly if they had significant tartar buildup.
Tartar is a hardened deposit that can accumulate around the teeth, especially behind the lower front teeth, where saliva contains minerals that contribute to its formation.
When tartar builds up between teeth, it can make those spaces feel filled in. Once we remove the deposits, you may notice spaces that were previously hidden.
As inflammation decreases, the gums may also become less swollen, making existing spaces more noticeable. This doesn't mean the cleaning damaged your teeth. It means we've removed the buildup and allowed the tissues to begin healing.
What results can you expect before and after a deep cleaning?
Before treatment, some patients experience swollen gums, bleeding, tenderness, or persistent bad breath. Others may not realize they have periodontal disease because they don't have noticeable symptoms.
After scaling and root planing, many patients notice that their gums feel healthier and less irritated. As the tissues heal, bleeding and inflammation may decrease, and brushing and flossing may become more comfortable.
However, deep cleaning is only one part of managing periodontal disease. Long-term results depend on consistent home care and regular periodontal maintenance.
After treatment, we may recommend maintenance appointments every three to four months rather than routine six-month cleanings. The frequency depends on the severity of your gum disease and how your tissues respond to treatment.
At home, continue brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and following any additional oral hygiene recommendations we provide. These habits help control plaque buildup and support your periodontal health.
If you’re searching for quality dental care, we’re here to help. Call (603) 634-9445 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is committed to keeping your smile healthy.