What is deep cleaning of teeth?

What is a deep cleaning of teeth?

Cleveland Clinic describes scaling and root planing as a nonsurgical deep dental cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from around the tooth roots, including below the gumline. Scaling clears buildup above the gumline, and root planing smooths the root surfaces below it so plaque and tartar have a harder time reattaching. Healthline says deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar below the gumline, which reduces the gum pocket and helps gums reattach.

What does scaling mean in dentistry?

Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface. Cleveland Clinic says scaling clears buildup above the gumline, and a routine cleaning also removes plaque and tartar, sometimes with a vibrating ultrasonic scaler, then polishes the teeth. The page on SRP does not cover perio scaling separately, so ask your dentist if you hear that term.

How is it different from a regular cleaning?

Cleveland Clinic says a routine cleaning works on the visible tooth surfaces, while scaling and root planing goes deeper, beneath the gums. A routine cleaning shouldn't hurt, though you may hear scraping, but your dentist numbs your gums first for a deep cleaning. Most routine cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes, whereas SRP takes about one to two hours and may be split across two appointments. See our guide on whether a deep cleaning hurts.

Who needs a deep cleaning?

Cleveland Clinic says dentists and periodontists typically recommend SRP for mild to moderate gum disease, periodontitis, especially when gums are swollen or bleed, and that it is usually the first-line treatment for these cases. Dental hygienists, dentists and periodontists can all perform it. A routine cleaning is not enough when tartar has built up below the gumline, which a dentist finds by measuring gum pockets.

What happens during the procedure?

Cleveland Clinic says the gums are numbed first with local anesthetic, which numbs the gums only. The provider removes buildup using hand tools or ultrasonic instruments, and may place antibiotics near the roots or prescribe oral antibiotics. The visit takes about one to two hours and may be split across two appointments depending on the case and plan.

What about recovery and risks?

Cleveland Clinic says most people return to normal activities the same day, no incisions or stitches are needed and eating is usually fine once comfortable. Complications are uncommon. Possible issues include bleeding, gum recession as swollen gums shrink and roots appear more exposed, infection, temporarily loose teeth, and heat or cold sensitivity that typically fades within a month or two. Mild soreness for a few days can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Healthline says pain may last one to two days and sensitivity up to a week, with effects lasting a few weeks for extensive cases.

Aftercare

Healthline suggests soft foods for a few days, avoiding very hot or cold food and drinks, over-the-counter pain relievers, warm salt water rinses if a dental professional recommends them, and gentle brushing with a soft-bristle brush and daily flossing. Cleveland Clinic says to follow your provider's aftercare instructions and to contact them for bleeding that will not stop, pain that medication does not relieve or severe swelling.

When is a deep cleaning not needed?

Cleveland Clinic says a routine cleaning works on the visible tooth surfaces and SRP is typically recommended for mild to moderate gum disease. If your gums are healthy and your pocket measurements are normal, a routine cleaning is the usual choice, which follows from those descriptions but is not a quote from the page. Ask your dentist what your measurements show and why a deeper cleaning is advised.

Questions to ask your dentist

Take these to your appointment.

• Do I have gum disease, and how deep are my pockets?
• How many visits will the deep cleaning take?
• Will you numb my gums, and with what?
• How will we know whether it has worked?
• How often should I come back for maintenance?

Frequently asked questions