Dental Deep Cleaning: Procedure, Benefits, and What to Expect

A dental deep cleaning is a specialized professional procedure designed to meticulously eliminate bacteria, plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, extending all the way to the tooth roots.

This differs significantly from a routine cleaning (prophylaxis), which primarily targets plaque and tartar on tooth surfaces above the gum line, possibly extending slightly below in healthy mouths.

Your dentist might propose a dental deep cleaning if they detect signs of gum disease and are concerned about its potential worsening. They will look for:

• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Receding gums
• Swollen, tender gums
• Pockets between the teeth and gums

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to bone and tooth loss, and has been linked to other adverse systemic health effects.

Understanding all aspects of a dental deep cleaning is crucial, including its significant advantages.

• Thoroughly Cleans Teeth Below the Gum line: A dental deep cleaning is a primary non-surgical method to safely and effectively remove accumulated plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line.
• Minimizes Bad Breath: Plaque and tartar can harbor odor-causing bacteria. Eliminating this buildup means banishing bacteria and welcoming fresh breath.
• Improves Gum Health: Removing plaque and tartar below the gum line significantly reduces gum inflammation and prevents the progression of gum disease. If your dentist identifies periodontal disease, a deep cleaning procedure can halt its advancement.
• Reduces the Risk of Tooth Loss: A dental deep cleaning can also lower your susceptibility to tooth loss. By eliminating plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line, you enable the supporting tissues of the tooth to heal. This healing can decrease pocket depths and potentially improve tooth support.
• Improves Overall Health: While the oral benefits are substantial, your mouth isn't the only part of you that benefits from a dental deep cleaning. Mounting scientific evidence demonstrates associations between periodontal disease and various systemic health issues.

Research indicates that oral diseases might impact systemic health through multiple pathways. Periodontal disease has been linked to diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, eating disorders, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Now that we've covered the purpose of a dental deep cleaning, let’s discuss what to expect during deep cleaning and after your appointment.

• During the Procedure: Prior to your deep cleaning procedure, your dentist might administer a local anesthetic to numb your gums. Once you are comfortable, they will commence the dental deep cleaning, which involves two stages: scaling and root planing.
• Scaling: During the scaling phase, your dentist will utilize specialized instruments such as a hand-held dental scaler or an ultrasonic tool to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, both above and below the gum line.
• Root Planing: Next, your dentist will meticulously smooth the roots of your teeth (the root planing stage) to remove any remaining plaque and tartar and bacterial byproducts. This process helps the space between your teeth and gums to close, allowing your gums to reattach to your teeth.
  While the entire deep cleaning procedure can sometimes be completed in one visit, most dentists opt to perform it over two sessions addressing one half of your mouth at a time.

• After the Procedure: You might experience mild reactions following a dental deep cleaning. Rest assured, these should subside within a few days to a week. Here's what to expect after deep cleaning.
• Swelling: Temporary gum swelling is a common symptom you may encounter after a dental deep cleaning. This is a normal part of the healing process and should not last long.
• Bleeding: You might also notice minor bleeding in your mouth for several days to a week. This, too, is normal and generally not a cause for concern.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Some patients report increased tooth sensitivity following a deep cleaning procedure, particularly to hot and cold foods and drinks.
  While the mild symptoms mentioned above are most likely, in rare instances, infection or nerve damage can occur.
  Though very rare, nerve damage can result, especially if the scaling and root planing are performed near nerves close to the surface or if underlying anatomical factors are present. There is also a rare risk of infection post-procedure, particularly if adequate oral hygiene is not maintained. Discuss all potential risks with your dentist.

• Care After the Cleaning: To promote proper healing following your deep cleaning procedure, here are some steps you can take at home as part of your deep cleaning aftercare:
• Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene: After your dental deep cleaning, resume your regular oral hygiene routine, but with extra gentleness.
  An electric toothbrush can simplify this, as many models feature pressure sensors and gentle cleaning modes.
• Follow Your Dentist’s Post-Procedure Instructions: Your dentist might recommend a mouthwash to prevent infection. They may also prescribe antibiotics for a few days, depending on your medical history. Ensure you follow their instructions carefully and contact them if your healing isn't progressing as expected.
• Eat Soft, Mild, and Temperate Foods: If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity after the deep cleaning procedure, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, hard items, and spicy or otherwise irritating foods. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat options.
• Don’t Smoke: Refrain from cigarettes and other tobacco products. These can impede the healing process and negatively impact your overall health.

If your dentist identifies signs of gum disease, they may recommend a dental deep cleaning. The good news is you now understand what a dental deep cleaning is and its implications, enabling you to make an informed decision for your oral health.

Tips for Good Oral Health

Common oral health issues can include cavities, gum disease, staining and sensitivity. The main culprit is often plaque buildup—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not treated, cavities and gum disease can lead to tooth loss and may even affect your overall health.

By following a complete oral care routine, you can help nip these issues in the bud, for a stronger, healthier smile:

• Protect your mouth with Crest: Make sure to brush twice a day with a stannous fluoride toothpaste like Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste. Crest toothpaste formulated with stannous fluoride fights cavities and tooth decay, strengthens enamel, fights sensitivity, and provides lasting protection against plaque buildup with twice-daily brushing.
• Rinse with Crest Pro-Health Complete Clean Mouthwash: Swish with this alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash to help rinse away leftover plaque, support gum health, and leave your mouth feeling clean and fresh.
• Brush 2X/day with an Oral-B iO Electric Toothbrush: An Oral-B iO electric toothbrush, helps remove 100% more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush. The dentist-inspired round brush head surrounds each tooth as it adapts to the curves of teeth and gums to ensure a cleaner, healthier smile—even in hard-to-reach areas.
• Use String Floss: Flossing once a day removes plaque and trapped food between teeth. Adding flossing to your routine can help flush away remaining particles and plaque from hard‑to-reach areas, giving you an extra layer of protection and promoting healthier gums.