Deep Cleaning Teeth: What It Is and Why It Matters
Maintaining good oral health takes more than daily brushing and flossing. When plaque and tartar build up below the gumline, regular cleanings are not enough. This is where deep cleaning becomes important. Also called scaling and root planing, deep cleaning is a dental procedure that helps treat early signs of gum disease. It removes bacteria, tartar, and plaque from areas that are difficult to reach with regular tools. If left untreated, these issues can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
At Kiefer Family Dental in Evansville, Indiana, deep cleaning is offered as part of a full range of dental services. Their team focuses on helping each patient achieve and maintain healthy gums and teeth. In this blog, we will explain what deep cleaning is, when it is needed, how the procedure works, and how to take care of your mouth after treatment.
What Is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning is a dental procedure that helps treat gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. It is different from a regular dental cleaning. While routine cleanings focus on the surfaces of the teeth above the gum line, deep cleaning goes deeper. It targets areas below the gum line where plaque and tartar can build up and cause damage to your gums and teeth.
This treatment usually includes two parts: scaling and root planing. Scaling is the process of removing plaque and hardened tartar from both the visible surface of the teeth and the area beneath the gum line. Dental professionals use special tools to clean these hard-to-reach areas. The next step is root planing. This part involves smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth. Smoother roots make it easier for the gums to reattach to the teeth. It also helps prevent bacteria from building up again in the future.
Why Is Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Gum disease begins when plaque builds up along the gum line. If not removed, this plaque hardens into tartar and causes the gums to become inflamed. Early gum disease is called gingivitis. If it is not treated, it can lead to periodontitis, a more serious condition that can damage the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Deep cleaning is recommended for patients who show signs of gum disease, such as:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
At Kiefer Family Dental, patients are thoroughly examined before a deep cleaning is recommended. Digital X-rays and periodontal charting help determine the extent of gum disease and whether deep cleaning is the best solution.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before undergoing a deep cleaning, it helps to know what the process involves. This procedure is more detailed than a standard dental cleaning and is done with care to protect your comfort and health. At clinics like Kiefer Family Dental, the dental team takes steps to ensure the experience is safe and effective. Understanding each step can ease anxiety and help you prepare. Here is what typically happens during a deep cleaning appointment:
- Anesthesia: The dentist may numb your gums with a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable.
- Scaling: Special tools are used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gums.
- Root Planing: The roots of the teeth are smoothed to help the gums reattach and to prevent bacteria from hiding in rough spots.
The procedure may take one to two hours, depending on how severe the gum disease is. Some patients may need more visits if the condition is advanced.
Is Deep Cleaning Painful, Necessary, and Safe?
Deep cleaning is generally not painful because dentists use a local anesthetic to numb your gums during the procedure. You may feel pressure, but not pain. Afterward, it is normal to have mild soreness, swelling, or slight bleeding. These symptoms usually go away in a few days. Using saltwater rinses and over-the-counter pain medicine can help ease the discomfort.
Most people only need one deep cleaning treatment. If you keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, that may be enough. However, patients with ongoing gum problems might need maintenance cleanings more often. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your condition.
Deep cleaning is a safe and proven method for treating gum disease. It helps stop the spread of infection and protects your teeth. While there may be minor risks, such as short-term tooth sensitivity or a small chance of infection, these are uncommon and manageable.
Aftercare and Recovery
After a deep cleaning, how you care for your mouth at home can make a big difference. Proper aftercare helps reduce discomfort and lowers the risk of future problems. It also supports healthy gum healing and prevents bacteria from returning. Dentists may give specific instructions based on your oral health and treatment plan. To help your mouth recover smoothly, follow these common aftercare steps:
- Brush and floss gently but thoroughly every day.
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods for a few days.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
Kiefer Family Dental provides each patient with aftercare instructions tailored to their needs. Following these instructions closely helps reduce the risk of infection and supports faster healing.
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning
Deep cleaning and regular dental cleaning serve different purposes and are not the same. Regular cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive measure. It helps maintain oral hygiene by removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line. Most people receive this type of cleaning every six months during their routine dental checkups.
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a treatment for gum disease. It targets areas below the gum line where bacteria and tartar have built up. This procedure helps stop the progression of periodontal disease and promotes healing of the gums.
The depth of treatment is another key difference. While regular cleaning focuses on visible surfaces, deep cleaning goes much deeper. It involves cleaning beneath the gums and smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. Deep cleaning is not needed for everyone. It is only recommended when signs of gum disease are present.
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Recognizing the early signs of gum disease is important for maintaining good oral health. Certain symptoms may indicate the need for a deep cleaning to prevent further damage. Advanced diagnostic tools can help accurately assess your gum health and recommend the right treatment. Watch for these warning signs that suggest you might need a deep cleaning:
- Pockets between your gums and teeth deeper than 4 millimeters
- Bone loss shown in X-rays
- Persistent gum bleeding or inflammation
- A history of gum disease
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an exam with your dentist. Kiefer Family Dental uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your gums and determine the best course of treatment.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning offers many important benefits for your oral health. It not only treats gum disease but also helps prevent serious complications. By removing harmful bacteria and plaque, deep cleaning supports healthier gums and fresher breath. It also lowers the chance of tooth loss and reduces bleeding and inflammation. Additionally, treating gum disease early can improve your overall health by reducing risks linked to other conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Here are the key benefits:
- Reduced risk of tooth loss
- Healthier gums
- Fresher breath
- Less bleeding and inflammation
- Improved overall oral health
Treating gum disease early with a deep cleaning can also reduce the risk of other health problems. Studies have linked gum disease to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Can Deep Cleaning Reverse Gum Disease?
Deep cleaning plays a vital role in managing gum disease. It can remove the plaque and tartar that cause infection below the gum line. In the early stage called gingivitis, deep cleaning may fully heal the gums and reverse the damage. However, in more advanced stages of gum disease, deep cleaning cannot undo all the damage. Instead, it helps control the infection and stops the disease from worsening. This treatment prevents further problems such as bone loss or tooth loss. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are important to maintain gum health after deep cleaning.
How to Prevent the Need for Deep Cleaning
Preventing the need for deep cleaning starts with strong daily habits. Taking care of your teeth and gums helps stop plaque buildup and gum disease before it begins. Regular dental visits combined with good oral hygiene can keep your smile healthy and reduce the risk of serious dental problems. Making simple lifestyle changes can also protect your gums. Here are effective ways to prevent the need for deep cleaning:
- Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid smoking, which increases your risk of gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and low in sugar.
Protect Your Smile with Expert Deep Cleaning – Book Your Appointment Today
Deep cleaning is essential for fighting gum disease and keeping your smile healthy. When your dentist recommends it, they are helping you prevent serious oral health issues. Trust the skilled team at Kiefer Family Dental to provide gentle, effective care tailored to your needs.
Visit Us: 3323 Mariner Dr, Evansville, IN 47711
Call Today: (812) 424-9506
Email: kelsey.kiefer@kieferfamilydental.com
Take the first step toward a healthier smile. Schedule your deep cleaning consultation at Kiefer Family Dental now!
