Deep dental cleaning explained

Deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure aimed at removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. This type of cleaning goes beyond what is typically done during a routine dental cleaning, where plaque and tartar are removed only from the surface of the teeth. Deep cleaning targets the areas where regular brushing and flossing cannot reach, especially the roots of the teeth, and is often recommended for patients with gum disease, also known as periodontitis.

Why Deep Cleaning Is Necessary

Over time, plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, can harden into tartar (also called calculus) if not removed by regular brushing and flossing. When tartar accumulates along the gumline and beneath the gums, it can lead to gum disease. The early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be reversible with proper care. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive. These pockets allow plaque and tartar to accumulate deeper beneath the gumline, leading to further infection and potential tooth loss.

Deep dental cleaning is performed to remove these hardened deposits from the roots of the teeth, preventing further gum damage and stopping the disease from advancing. This procedure is essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing severe periodontal problems.

The Process of Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning typically involves two main steps: scaling and root planing.

1. Scaling: During the scaling phase, the dentist or hygienist uses specialized instruments, either manual or ultrasonic, to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, especially beneath the gumline. The ultrasonic tools vibrate at high frequencies to break up the tartar, while the manual tools are used to scrape off any remaining deposits. This process may take longer than a routine cleaning, as it involves working below the gumline, where plaque and tartar tend to be more stubborn.

2. Root Planing: Once the tartar has been removed, the dentist will smooth the surfaces of the tooth roots. This process is called root planing. Smoothing the roots helps eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevents future plaque from accumulating. Root planing also encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth, reducing the size of the pockets that form between the teeth and gums. This can help restore gum health and prevent further recession.

Anesthesia and Comfort During the Procedure

Since deep cleaning involves working beneath the gumline and on the tooth roots, it can be more uncomfortable than a regular cleaning. Local anesthesia is often administered to numb the area and ensure that the procedure is as pain-free as possible. Some patients may also experience anxiety about the treatment, so sedation options are available in certain cases. The dentist will discuss your comfort options beforehand.

In some cases, deep cleaning is performed in stages, especially if the gum disease is extensive. Each quadrant of the mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left) may be treated separately, with a follow-up visit scheduled after a few weeks to allow the gums time to heal.

Post-Treatment Care

After a deep cleaning, patients may experience some tenderness or sensitivity in the gums and teeth, especially when brushing or eating. This is normal and should subside within a few days. In some cases, patients may also notice that their gums bleed a bit when brushing or flossing in the days following the procedure. This is also common as the gums heal.

It’s essential to follow the dentist’s instructions after a deep cleaning to ensure proper healing and to avoid complications. The dentist may recommend using an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help reduce bacteria and prevent infection in the treated areas.

In more severe cases of gum disease, additional treatments, such as periodontal surgery, may be necessary if the pockets are too deep to be cleaned effectively through scaling and root planing alone. Your dentist will monitor your progress and determine if further treatment is needed.

Benefits of Deep Cleaning

• Prevents Further Gum Disease Progression: By removing tartar and bacteria from below the gumline, deep cleaning helps stop the progression of gum disease, potentially reversing the damage caused by early-stage periodontal disease.

• Promotes Gum Health: By smoothing the tooth roots and encouraging the gums to reattach to the teeth, deep cleaning helps restore gum health and reduces the risk of gum recession and tooth loss.

• Reduces Bad Breath: Deep cleaning can help eliminate the bacteria and toxins in the pockets of the gums that can contribute to chronic bad breath (halitosis).

• Improved Oral Hygiene: After a deep cleaning, the patient may find it easier to maintain their oral hygiene, as the gums are no longer inflamed and can more effectively trap bacteria and plaque at the gumline.

Who Needs a Deep Cleaning?

Not everyone needs a deep dental cleaning. The procedure is generally recommended for people who have moderate to severe gum disease, which may present as:

• Gums that are red, swollen, or bleed easily when brushing or flossing

• Chronic bad breath

• Receding gums or pockets between the teeth and gums

• Loose or shifting teeth

• Deep tartar buildup on the teeth

If you are unsure whether you need a deep cleaning, it’s important to see a dentist for an evaluation. The dentist will assess the health of your gums and teeth and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. For those who are at risk for developing gum disease (such as smokers, people with diabetes, or those with a family history of gum disease), regular dental visits and cleanings are essential for preventing the need for deep cleaning.

Conclusion

Deep dental cleaning is a vital procedure for individuals with gum disease, helping to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and promote healthy gums. By addressing periodontal problems early, deep cleaning can prevent tooth loss and maintain long-term oral health. If you suspect that you may need a deep cleaning, it’s best to consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment plan to maintain a healthy smile. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene habits, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial in keeping your gums and teeth in optimal condition.