What Happens During a Deep Cleaning Appointment?
When your dentist tells you that you need a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, you will have many questions. That is understandable. Your routine cleaning is every 6 months, but a deep cleaning is only done when needed, and it will usually take more than one visit. This dental procedure treats gum disease and restores oral health. Deep cleaning is different than routine cleanings. Routine cleanings focus on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline, and deep cleaning targets areas below the gums where bacteria accumulate.
Why It’s Important
Deep cleaning is a critical step in stopping the progression of gum disease. By removing harmful bacteria and smoothing tooth roots, this procedure helps prevent tooth loss and protects your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, so timely treatment is essential.
Oral Examination
When you arrive at your appointment, the hygienist will do a thorough visual inspection of your mouth. The dentist will measure the depth of the gum pockets using a periodontal probe. If you need a deep cleaning, chances are that your pockets are 4 millimeters deep or higher. This is an indication that you need scaling and root planing.
Local Anesthesia
Deep cleaning involves working below the gumline. If you do not have any local anesthesia, the procedure could be uncomfortable. To keep you as comfortable as possible, your dentist will administer local anesthetics to numb the affected areas. When the area is numb, the hygienist can clean thoroughly without causing pain.
Scaling
Scaling will be the next step after the anesthesia. Using manual scalers or ultrasonic devices, the hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and from underneath the gums. This step is important because the tartar buildup below the gumline is one of the main culprits of gum disease.
Root Planing
Root planing begins after the hygienist is finished with scaling. This process involves smoothing the roots of your teeth. The purpose of this step is for the gums to reattach to the teeth and to reduce the depth of periodontal pockets. Root planing will make it harder for bacteria to accumulate in the future. To complete the process, the hygienist will flush the pockets with an antimicrobial solution to kill remaining bacteria.
After the deep cleaning is complete, your dentist will check the area and add or prescribe antibiotics if needed. You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, which can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and gentle brushing.
Reach Out for Support
After scaling and root planing are complete, you will receive follow-up instructions. Make sure to follow up with them and ask for your follow-up appointment. Your dentist will let you know when you can start your appointments again, every six months. Expect a discussion with your dentist about your visit and a treatment plan, if needed. Please contact our office if you have any questions or for an appointment.