GUM HEALTH

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

Last updated 06/25
Dr Francesca

This blog has been reviewed and approved by Francesca Dusio, an Italian registered Dentist with a strong international background.

Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
  1. A dental deep cleaning is a professional teeth-cleaning procedure that goes beyond routine cleanings. There are two steps in a dental deep cleaning. First, scaling removes the plaque and tartar above and below your gum line. Next, root planing smooths your tooth roots and removes plaque and tartar below the gumline.
  2. Your dentist may recommend a dental deep cleaning if they see signs of gum disease, including bleeding or swollen gums, loose teeth, receding gums, or pockets between your teeth and gums.
  3. Benefits of dental deep cleaning include treating early-stage gum disease and stopping its progression, preventing tooth loss, and reducing gum inflammation and bad breath.
  4. After the cleaning, you may have temporary gum inflammation, bleeding, or increased sensitivity, especially if there was significant plaque buildup or if you hadn't had a cleaning in a while. The best aftercare includes maintaining your oral hygiene, eating soft foods, and refraining from smoking.