Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): what to expect, aftercare and FAQs

What is a deep cleaning?

Cleveland Clinic says scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning that removes tartar and bacteria around the tooth roots, reaching below the gumline. Scaling removes build-up above and below the gums and root planing smooths the roots. It is nonsurgical and can be done by a hygienist, dentist or periodontist. Healthline says a routine cleaning only addresses the area above the gumline.

Is a deep cleaning necessary?

Cleveland Clinic says it is usually the first-line treatment for mild to moderate periodontitis, especially when gums are swollen or bleeding, and that a deep cleaning is the only way to remove plaque and bacteria deep under your gums. Healthline says dentists may recommend it for bleeding gums, receding gums or loose teeth, especially when gum pockets are deeper than about 4 millimeters. If you have healthy gums and shallow pockets, a routine cleaning is enough, so ask your dentist to show you the measurements and the reason for the recommendation, and consider a second opinion if you are unsure.

How long does a deep cleaning take?

Cleveland Clinic says the procedure takes one to two hours and may be completed in one visit or split into two, with half the teeth cleaned each time. Healthline says it usually takes two or more visits, each about an hour, and some people need up to four. Ask your dentist how many visits to expect and whether each side of the mouth is done separately.

What happens during a deep cleaning?

The gums are numbed with local anesthesia, tartar and bacteria are removed from the teeth and roots below the gumline and the root surfaces are smoothed so the gums can reattach and heal. Cleveland Clinic says antibiotics may be placed around the roots or prescribed by mouth. Our guide on whether deep cleaning hurts explains numbing and soreness.

What to expect after a deep cleaning

Cleveland Clinic says most people return to normal routines the same day, no incisions or stitches are needed and gums may be tender for a couple of days, with teeth wiggly or sensitive to hot and cold for a month or two. Healthline suggests soft foods, avoiding very hot or cold foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, warm salt water rinses if recommended and careful brushing and flossing. Contact your dentist for bleeding that will not stop, pain medication does not relieve or severe swelling.

How is deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning?

A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces above the gumline and polishes the teeth, and is typically done about every six months, according to Cleveland Clinic. A deep cleaning treats the roots and pockets under the gums when gum disease is present. Healthy people do not need a deep cleaning.

After the deep cleaning: keeping gum disease away

Cleveland Clinic says ideally you need it only once, with regular cleanings and good home care to prevent recurrence, and its gum disease pages say gum disease cannot be cured but can be managed and often needs maintenance cleanings. Healthline says recurring gum disease may require repeat cleanings or surgical treatment. See our guide on whether periodontal disease can be reversed and our periodontist guide.

Costs and insurance

The sources we read for this guide give figures that vary, so we do not repeat them. Healthline says many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost but coverage depends on medical necessity and documentation, so check before scheduling. Ask the office for a written estimate that shows the cost per quadrant and any antibiotics.

Questions to ask your dentist

Ask for the measurements behind the recommendation.

• How deep are my gum pockets, and which teeth need treatment?
• Is a deep cleaning necessary, or could a routine cleaning do?
• How many visits will it take, and how will you numb me?
• What will it cost, and what will my insurance cover?
• How often will I need maintenance cleanings afterwards?

Guides in this topic

Frequently asked questions