Deep cleaning teeth: what it is and when you need it

Brushing and flossing keep your teeth healthy, but sometimes they are not enough. For some people, regular cleanings do not reach everything that builds up below the gum line.

That is where deep cleaning comes in. So what is deep cleaning teeth, and when do you need it?

Understanding deep cleaning teeth

Definition of deep cleaning teeth

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that treats gum disease. A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. Deep cleaning goes beneath the gum line to clean and smooth the surfaces of your teeth and roots.

It targets the areas where bacteria and plaque can hide, which helps prevent or treat gum disease.

Difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning

Both regular cleaning and deep cleaning aim to maintain a healthy smile, but they serve different purposes:

• A regular cleaning, typically done at your semi-annual dental checkups, removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line. It is a preventive measure to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
• A deep cleaning is a more intensive treatment for people with gum disease or deep tartar buildup. It cleans below the gum line to remove bacteria, tartar, and plaque that have collected in pockets between your teeth and gums, where regular cleaning tools cannot reach.

The process of deep cleaning teeth

Explanation of tooth scaling

What happens during a deep teeth cleaning? Scaling is the first part. It removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth, particularly below the gum line. Using specialized instruments, your dentist or dental hygienist carefully scrapes away buildup that can contribute to gum disease.

This removes harmful bacteria and helps prevent further infection or inflammation of the gums.

Description of root planing

Root planing comes after scaling. It smooths the rough surfaces of the tooth roots so bacteria have a harder time collecting there.

Smoother roots also let the gums reattach to the teeth more securely, which reduces the risk of future gum recession and tooth loss.

Duration and steps involved in the procedure

A deep cleaning typically takes longer than a regular cleaning. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, it may take one or two visits. The dentist or hygienist will usually numb the area being treated so you are comfortable throughout.

The mouth is usually treated in quadrants, one section at a time. For some patients, the dentist may recommend doing scaling and root planing in stages to minimize discomfort.

Benefits of deep cleaning teeth

Prevention of gum disease

Deep cleaning is an effective way to stop gum disease from progressing, especially in its early stage (gingivitis) and moderate stage (periodontitis). By removing bacteria and plaque from below the gum line, it helps stop the infection from spreading and damaging the gums and bone that support your teeth.

Reduction of bad breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria building up in the mouth, especially below the gum line. Cleaning those areas thoroughly reduces the bacteria responsible for foul-smelling breath.

Improvement in overall oral health

Deep cleaning can improve your oral health by restoring healthy gums and preventing issues like gum recession, tooth loss, and infection. With healthier gums, your teeth are more stable and you are less likely to have complications down the road.

When is a deep cleaning of teeth necessary?

Signs and symptoms indicating the need for deep cleaning

When do you need deep cleaning teeth? You may need one if you notice any of these signs:

• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums, particularly when brushing or flossing, are often a sign of gum disease. If your gums are tender or bleed easily, you may need a deep cleaning.
• Chronic bad breath can be a sign of bacterial buildup under the gum line that may require deep cleaning to resolve.
• If your gums are pulling away from your teeth and exposing more of the tooth or even the root, deep cleaning may be necessary to prevent further damage.
• Teeth that feel loose or unstable may indicate advanced gum disease, which deep cleaning can help treat and reverse if caught early.
• Deep pockets between your teeth and gums are a sign of advanced gum disease. Bacteria accumulate in these pockets, and deep cleaning is needed to remove them.

What to expect after deep cleaning of teeth

Aftercare and recovery

After a deep cleaning, you may have some sensitivity in your teeth and gums for a few days. This is normal, because your gums are healing and adjusting to the treatment.

Your gums may also look slightly swollen or bleed during brushing, but this should improve with time. To manage discomfort, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and a gentle oral care routine.

What can you eat after deep cleaning teeth?

For a few days after your procedure, it is a good idea to stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, cold, or hard. Soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are gentle on sensitive gums. Stay hydrated and keep up your oral hygiene routine as recommended by your dentist so your gums heal well.

At Neola Dental, we offer professional cleaning services to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. If you think you may need a deep cleaning, our team of dental professionals can take a look. Schedule your visit today.