What Happens During Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is an advanced dental procedure that is different from routine tartar removal. It is a procedure recommended for patients suffering from periodontal disease, which is an infection of the gums that leads to receding gums and damage to the tissues and bones that support the teeth. In this essay, we will look at what exactly a deep cleaning is, what the steps are, what to expect before and after, and why it is so important for your oral health.
Why is deep cleaning performed?
Over time, poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar, smoking, and genetic predisposition can lead to the buildup of plaque (bacterial biofilm) and hard tartar under the gum line. When bacteria begin to penetrate below the gums, they form periodontal pockets—spaces between the gum and tooth where inflammation develops. If this is not stopped, periodontitis and even tooth loss can occur.
A deep cleaning is designed to remove bacteria, tartar, and toxins from these pockets and smooth the surface of the tooth roots to make it harder for plaque to reattach and to help the gums adhere.
Deep cleaning steps
A deep cleaning procedure consists of two main steps: subgingival scaling and root planing. It is typically performed by a periodontist or dental hygienist, often during two separate visits (e.g. one half of the mouth per visit).
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Subgingival scaling (scaling)
During this stage, the dentist removes plaque and tartar located below the gum line. For this purpose, special hand tools (curettes) and ultrasonic scalers are used, which break up deposits through vibrations. The procedure can be unpleasant, which is why local anesthesia is often used - especially if the pockets are deep or the inflammation is advanced.
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Root planing
After removing the deposits, the dentist or hygienist smoothes the surface of the tooth roots. The aim is to eliminate microscopic irregularities in which bacteria could settle. The smoothed surface promotes the reattachment of the gums and limits the development of inflammation.
What happens after the procedure?
After a deep cleaning, the patient may experience tender gums, bleeding, and tooth sensitivity to cold or sweet foods, especially if the gums have started to recede. These symptoms are usually temporary and disappear after a few days.
The dentist often prescribes antibacterial rinses (e.g., with chlorhexidine) and also recommends gentle brushing and flossing. After a few weeks, the patient returns for a check-up to assess whether the gums have healed and whether the pockets have decreased in depth.
In more severe cases of periodontal disease, repeat treatments or even surgical intervention (e.g., surgical cleaning of the pockets) may be necessary.
Benefits of deep cleaning
- Stopping the progression of periodontal disease - removing bacteria prevents further destruction of the bone and gums.
- Improved general health - studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
- Fresher Breath – Deep gum infection is often the cause of bad breath.
- Aesthetics and Comfort – Reduced inflammation improves the appearance of gums and comfort when eating or brushing.
In conclusion
Deep dental cleaning is not just about removing tartar, but an advanced treatment procedure that can save your teeth from falling out, stop gum inflammation, and improve your overall oral health. Although the procedure may be a bit unpleasant, its effects are long-term and significant. Regular dental check-ups and good hygiene after the procedure are key to maintaining periodontal health for years to come, so call us today to get started having the healthiest mouth possible!