What Is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing (SRP), is a thorough cleaning procedure that goes beyond regular dental cleanings. While routine cleanings focus on the visible tooth surfaces above the gumline, deep cleanings target the hidden areas beneath your gums where harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar accumulate and cause gum disease.
This non-surgical treatment has two main components: scaling removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and below the gumline, and root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach and prevent future bacterial buildup. Deep cleaning is the gold standard treatment for early to moderate gum disease (periodontitis) and can prevent the need for more invasive procedures like gum surgery.
💡 Why Is It Called "Deep" Cleaning?
Regular cleanings only reach 1-3mm below the gumline. Deep cleanings reach 4-6mm+ deep into periodontal pockets (spaces between teeth and gums that form with gum disease). This depth allows removal of bacteria that standard cleanings cannot reach, effectively treating the root cause of gum disease.
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning
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Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
- Preventive maintenance for healthy gums
- Cleans above the gumline only
- No anesthesia needed
- Takes 30-45 minutes
- Done every 6 months
- Prevents gum disease from starting
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Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
- Treatment for existing gum disease
- Cleans deep below gumline (4-6mm+)
- Local anesthesia to ensure comfort
- Takes 1-2 hours per visit
- May require multiple appointments
- Reverses early gum disease, prevents progression
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Your dentist will measure the depth of pockets between your teeth and gums during routine exams. Pockets deeper than 4mm indicate gum disease and may require deep cleaning. Common signs include:
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating indicate inflammation from bacterial infection
- Swollen or Tender Gums: Puffy, red gums that are sensitive to touch are classic signs of periodontal disease
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling away from teeth, making teeth appear longer or exposing tooth roots
- Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis that doesn't improve with brushing, often caused by bacteria below the gumline
- Loose Teeth: Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position due to bone loss from gum disease
- Deep Periodontal Pockets: Measured during dental exam; pockets 4mm+ require deep cleaning
- Visible Tartar Buildup: Hard, crusty deposits on teeth near the gumline (usually brownish/yellow)
The Deep Cleaning Procedure
1
Assessment & Planning
We measure pocket depths around each tooth using a periodontal probe. Pockets deeper than 4mm indicate gum disease. X-rays help us assess bone loss. We discuss your treatment plan and address any concerns.
2
Numbing & Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. You may feel pressure but no pain. We typically treat one or two quadrants (sections) of your mouth per visit.
3
Scaling (Removing Buildup)
Using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, we carefully remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces above and below the gumline, reaching deep into periodontal pockets.
4
Root Planing (Smoothing Roots)
Tooth roots are smoothed to remove rough spots where bacteria gather. This helps gum tissue reattach to teeth and prevents future bacterial colonization.
5
Irrigation & Antibiotics (Optional)
We may flush pockets with antimicrobial solution and place antibiotic medication directly into deep pockets to promote healing and reduce infection.
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Deep cleaning is typically split into 2-4 appointments, treating one or two quadrants per visit. Each appointment takes 45-90 minutes. This approach allows adequate time for thorough cleaning while keeping you comfortable. Some patients with mild gum disease may complete treatment in one visit.
After Your Deep Cleaning
Immediate Aftercare
- Sensitivity is Normal: Teeth and gums may feel sensitive for 5-7 days, especially to cold
- Soft Foods First: Stick to softer foods for the first 24 hours while gums heal
- Gentle Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around treated areas
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers help with any discomfort
Ongoing Care
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss daily without exception
- Antimicrobial Rinse: May be prescribed to reduce bacteria and promote healing
- More Frequent Cleanings: Typically every 3-4 months instead of 6 months to maintain results
- Follow-Up Visit: We'll recheck pocket depths after 4-6 weeks to assess healing
🌟 Expected Results
Within 4-6 weeks after deep cleaning, you should notice healthier, firmer gums that are pink instead of red, reduced bleeding, fresher breath, and shallower periodontal pockets. In many cases, gums will reattach to teeth, reversing early to moderate gum disease. However, advanced bone loss cannot be reversed—only stabilized.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning
- Stops Gum Disease Progression: Removes infection-causing bacteria, preventing further damage to gums and bone
- Saves Your Teeth: Prevents tooth loss by treating the leading cause of tooth loss in adults—periodontal disease
- Reduces Bad Breath: Eliminates bacterial colonies responsible for persistent halitosis
- Promotes Healing: Allows gum tissue to reattach and tighten around teeth as inflammation resolves
- Prevents Costly Procedures: Early intervention with deep cleaning can prevent need for gum surgery or tooth extraction
- Improves Overall Health: Gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions—treating it benefits whole-body health
- Non-Surgical Treatment: Effective without the need for invasive gum surgery in early to moderate cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Does deep cleaning hurt?
No. We use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure and scraping sensations, but no sharp pain. After the procedure, gums may be tender or sensitive for several days, but this is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How is deep cleaning different from regular cleaning?
Regular cleanings are preventive and only clean above the gumline. Deep cleanings are therapeutic—treating existing gum disease by cleaning 4-6mm+ below the gumline where regular cleanings cannot reach. Deep cleaning requires anesthesia and targets bacterial infections causing periodontal disease.
Will my gums grow back after deep cleaning?
Gum tissue can reattach to teeth and pockets can become shallower, but severely receded gums won't "grow back" to their original height. However, deep cleaning stops further recession and creates a healthier environment where remaining gum tissue can heal and tighten around teeth.
How often do I need deep cleanings?
Deep cleaning is typically a one-time treatment to address existing gum disease. After the initial treatment, you'll need more frequent regular cleanings (every 3-4 months instead of 6 months) called periodontal maintenance to prevent gum disease from returning. With excellent home care and regular maintenance, you may not need another deep cleaning.
Can I avoid deep cleaning with better brushing?
Unfortunately, no. Once tartar forms below the gumline and periodontal pockets develop, you cannot remove it with brushing and flossing alone. Only professional deep cleaning can reach these areas. However, excellent oral hygiene after treatment prevents the need for future deep cleanings.
How much does deep cleaning cost?
Deep cleaning costs vary based on severity and how many quadrants need treatment. Typically ranges from $150-$350 per quadrant (section of mouth). Treating all four quadrants usually costs $600-$1,400 total. Most dental insurance covers 50-80% of deep cleaning costs when medically necessary. We'll provide a detailed estimate before beginning treatment.
What happens if I don't get deep cleaning?
Untreated gum disease progresses from gingivitis to periodontitis, causing irreversible bone loss, receding gums, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss. The infection can spread, potentially affecting your overall health. Early treatment with deep cleaning is far preferable to advanced treatments like gum surgery or tooth extraction later.
Restore Your Gum Health Today
Don't let gum disease progress. Our gentle, thorough deep cleaning treatments can reverse early gum disease and save your teeth. Schedule your periodontal evaluation today to learn if deep cleaning is right for you.
