Deep Cleaning Explained

Ordinary cleanings aren’t always sufficient if bacteria has spread below the gum line; you’ll need a deep dental cleaning to restore your gums to full health. While regular cleanings focus on the gum line to scale and polish the teeth’s outer surface, deep cleanings involve removing bacteria colonies and tartar from the roots of the teeth.

What is a deep cleaning?

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that removes plaque or tartar buildup below the gum line. It involves removing plaque from areas of the teeth below the gum line to help reduce the gap between the teeth and gums caused by gum disease. When you have gum disease, the space between the teeth and gums opens and becomes broader, trapping tartar and plaque.

How do I know if I need a deep dental cleaning?

Deep cleaning is not necessary for every patient but is strongly recommended for patients with gum disease. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be experiencing bleeding gums, pus, large pockets at the gum line, bad breath, or chipping teeth and need a deep cleaning to prevent tooth loss and further damage.

What is involved in a deep cleaning appointment?

Your dentist will review your medical history and take an x-ray before the procedure; this will help them determine which area(s) to focus on. Then, they will use a specialized tool to measure the depths of your gum sockets. The next step is scaling, which involves manually scraping plaque and tartar from the teeth surface and polishing. The dentist will use gritty toothpaste and an air polisher to smoothen the surface. Lastly, we floss and end the procedure with a fluoride rinse.

How long does a deep cleaning take?

The procedure is often split into two sessions because numbing the entire mouth would make it difficult to talk, eat, or drink after a session. It may take up to an hour to complete the first deep clean. This session will focus on one side of your mouth, and the second appointment will treat the remaining teeth and gums. 

Is deep cleaning painful?

Your dentist may use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth for your treatment if you are experiencing pain or discomfort before your cleaning. Following your session, you may find that your gums feel sore, swollen, and sensitive. You will immediately feel relief on your gums, but it may take a few days or weeks before all sensitivity fades.

If you’re concerned about your teeth or gum health and want to look into a deep cleaning, schedule an appointment with our Plantation dentist, Tamarac dentist, or Davie dentist to learn more about the procedure.

August 16, 2022