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

What Is a Dental Deep Cleaning? 

A dental deep cleaning is a professional procedure that removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar both above and below the gum line, all the way down to the tooth roots. 

This is different from a routine cleaning, in which your dentist only removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar from tooth surfaces above the gum line. 

Your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning if they see signs of gum disease and are worried it could worsen. They’ll look for: 

• Bleeding gums 

• Loose teeth 

• Receding gums 

• Swollen, tender gums 

• Pockets between the teeth and gums 

If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth and bone decay, tooth loss, and a host of other negative health effects. 

Benefits of a Deep Cleaning 

Understanding all aspects of deep cleaning is important, including its benefits. 

Thoroughly Cleans Teeth Below the Gum Line 

A deep dental cleaning is the only way to safely and effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. 

Minimizes Bad Breath 

Plaque and tartar can trap bacteria that cause bad breath, so removing its buildup means “bye-bye” bacteria and “hello” fresh breath. 

Improves Gum Health 

Removing the tartar and plaque below the gum line can also help reduce gum inflammation and prevent gum disease from progressing. If your dentist sees signs of periodontitis, a deep cleaning can keep it from getting worse. 

Reduces the Risk of Tooth Loss 

A deep cleaning can also reduce your risk for tooth loss. By removing plaque and tartar below the gum line, you allow your supporting tissues of the tooth to heal, reduce mobility, and better support your teeth. 

Improves Overall Health 

While the above oral benefits are noteworthy, your mouth isn’t the only part of you that benefits from a deep cleaning. 

There is growing scientific evidence showing associations between periodontal disease and various systemic health issues 

Research has shown that oral diseases might have an impact on systemic health via multiple pathways. Periodontal disease has been associated with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, eating disorders, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. 

What to Expect from Your Cleaning Procedure 

Now that we know the purpose of a dental deep cleaning, let’s talk about what to expect during and after your procedure.  

During the Procedure 

Before your deep cleaning, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to numb your gums. Once you’re ready, they’ll begin the deep cleaning process, which involves two steps: scaling and root planing. 

Scaling 

During tooth scaling, your dentist will use specialized instruments — likely a hand-held dental scaler or an ultrasonic tool with a vibrating metal tip — to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth above the gum line.  

Root Planing 

Next, your dentist will remove tartar and plaque below the gumline by smoothing the roots of your teeth (root planing). As a result, the space between your teeth and gums closes up so your gums can reattach to your teeth. 

Although the whole procedure can be done in one visit, most dentists will complete it in two sessions — one half of your mouth at a time. 

After the Procedure 

You may have a mild reaction after a deep cleaning. Don’t worry; the reaction should subside after a few days to a week. Here’s what you can expect to experience: 

Swelling 

One symptom you may experience after a dental deep cleaning is temporary gum swelling. This is a common part of the healing process and shouldn’t last too long.  

Bleeding 

You may also have minor bleeding in your mouth for a few days to a week. Again, this is normal and nothing to worry about.  

Tooth Sensitivity 

Some patients experience increased tooth sensitivity after a deep cleaning procedure —- particularly to hot and cold food and drinks. 

While you’ll likely only have the mild symptoms mentioned above, in rare cases, infection or nerve damage can occur. 

While very rare, nerve damage can occur, particularly if the scaling and root planing are performed in areas where nerves are close to the surface or if there are underlying anatomical considerations. 

There is also a rare risk of infection following the procedure, especially if proper oral hygiene is not maintained afterward. Talk to your dentist about all the possible risks.  

Care After the Cleaning 

To help your mouth heal properly, here are some things you can do at home:  

Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene 

After your deep cleaning, resume your dental hygiene routine, but be extra gentle. 

Switching to an electric toothbrush can make this easier, since many models feature pressure sensors and gentle cleaning modes. 

Follow Your Dentist’s Post-Procedure Instructions 

Your dentist might suggest a mouthwash to prevent infection. They may also prescribe an antibiotic for a few days, depending on your medical history. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully and reach out if you’re not healing as expected.

Eat Soft, Mild, and Temperate Foods 

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity after the procedure, avoid hot or cold foods and drinks, hard foods, and spicy or otherwise irritating foods. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods. 

Don’t Smoke 

Steer clear of cigarettes and other tobacco products as well. These can slow down the healing process and are bad for your overall health.  

Clean, Healthy Teeth with Oral-B 

If your dentist sees signs of gum disease, they may suggest a dental deep cleaning. The good news is now you know what that is and what it entails, so you can make an informed decision for your oral health. 

If you’re wondering how to keep your teeth healthy at home after your deep cleaning, Oral-B can help. Our iO Electric Toothbrush Series features micro-vibrating bristles and a dentist-inspired round brush head to clean 100% more plaque than a manual toothbrush. 

Sources 

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279592/ 

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5872203/  

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23983-tooth-scaling-and-root-planing  

• https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/scaling-and-root-planing  

• https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/gum-periodontal-disease.html  

• Y Zou, J Grender, R Adam, L Levin, A meta-analysis comparing toothbrush technologies on gingivitis and plaque, International Dental Journal, 2024, 74(1), 146–156. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.identj.2023.06.009