Maintaining oral health usually involves regular teeth cleanings every six months, but sometimes, your dentist Teeth cleaning recommend a deeper, more intensive procedure known as deep teeth cleaning. Also called scaling and root planing, this treatment goes beyond the surface to tackle more serious gum problems. But what exactly happens during a deep cleaning, and how do you know if you need one? Let’s break it down.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning is a specialized dental procedure designed to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and bacteria from below the gumline and smooth the roots of your teeth. This helps prevent or treat gum disease (periodontitis), a condition where bacteria damage the gums and supporting bone around your teeth.
Unlike regular cleanings, which only remove buildup above the gumline, deep cleanings target the pockets that form between your teeth and gums due to gum disease.
When Might You Need a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Your dentist or hygienist may recommend a deep cleaning if:
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You have signs of gum disease: This includes red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
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Pocket depths exceed normal levels: Healthy gums have shallow pockets (1-3 millimeters). If your gum pockets measure 4 millimeters or deeper, bacteria can accumulate, requiring a deep cleaning.
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You have persistent bad breath or loose teeth: These symptoms can indicate underlying gum infection.
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X-rays show bone loss around teeth: This suggests advanced gum disease.
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You have not had a dental cleaning for an extended period: Excessive tartar buildup might require a deep cleaning to restore gum health.
What Happens During a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep cleaning is usually performed over two or more visits, focusing on different sections of your mouth.
Step 1: Examination and Assessment
The dentist or hygienist will first assess your gums, measure pocket depths, and evaluate the extent of tartar buildup. Sometimes X-rays are taken to check bone loss.
Step 2: Scaling
Using specialized instruments—manual scalers or ultrasonic devices—they remove plaque and tartar deposits from above and below the gumline. The ultrasonic tool vibrates to break up hardened deposits and flushes the area with water.
Step 3: Root Planing
After scaling, the tooth roots are carefully smoothed (planed) to remove rough spots where bacteria gather. Smoothing the roots also helps gums reattach securely to the teeth, reducing pocket depths.
Step 4: Rinse and Possible Medication
The area is rinsed to clear debris. In some cases, your dentist may apply antimicrobial agents or prescribe antibiotics to help control infection.
What to Expect After the Procedure
It’s normal to experience some gum tenderness, sensitivity, or mild bleeding for a few days after deep cleaning. Your dentist may recommend gentle brushing, saltwater rinses, and pain relievers if needed. Healing typically begins quickly, with improvements in gum health noticeable within a couple of weeks.
Why Is Deep Cleaning Important?
If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like tooth loss, jawbone damage, and increased risk of systemic diseases such as heart problems or diabetes. Deep cleaning halts the progression of gum disease, preserves your teeth, and restores healthier gums.
Final Thoughts
Deep teeth cleaning is a crucial treatment when gum disease takes hold, working beneath the surface to eliminate harmful bacteria and promote healing. If your dentist recommends it, embracing this procedure can save your smile and improve your overall health.
If you’re unsure whether you need a deep cleaning or want to know how to prevent gum disease, ask your dental professional—they’re your best guide to lasting oral health.
