If your hygienist has recommended a deep dental cleaning—also called scaling and root planing—you may be wondering what it is, why you need it, and how it feels. Think of this treatment as a “reset” for your gums. Plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) beneath the gumline act like splinters; until they’re removed, irritation and bone loss can progress. This guide explains the process step by step so you can walk in confident and walk out on a healthier path.
Why A Routine Cleaning Isn’t Always Enough
A standard cleaning (prophylaxis) polishes above-the-gum surfaces and is perfect for preventative dentistry maintenance. However, when bacteria create deeper pockets between teeth and gums, instruments must reach below the gumline. Over time, trapped calculus roughens root surfaces and keeps inflammation active. Scaling & root planing gently removes buildup and smooths roots so gums can reattach—reducing pocket depth and bleeding.
How We Diagnose The Need For Deep Cleaning
During your periodontal evaluation, we:
- Measure pocket depths around each tooth
- Check for bleeding points and recession
- Review digital X-rays for bone levels
- Assess risk factors (dry mouth, smoking, diabetes, clenching)
If pockets measure 4 mm or deeper with bleeding or tartar evident, we’ll discuss deep cleaning to stop progression and protect the bone supporting your teeth.
What Happens During Scaling & Root Planing
- Comfort First: We numb the areas being treated—usually half the mouth per visit—to keep you comfortable. For anxious patients, sedation dentistry options can help you relax.
- Scaling: Using ultrasonic and hand instruments, we remove plaque and calculus from the root surfaces beneath the gumline.
- Root Planing: We smooth microscopic irregularities so plaque has a harder time reattaching.
- Site Irrigation/Medication: In select cases, we place a localized antimicrobial into deeper pockets to reduce bacterial load.
- Home Care Coaching: You’ll leave with clear instructions tailored to your routine and tools you’ll actually use.
Does It Hurt?
Most patients are surprised by how comfortable treatment feels with local anesthesia. After numbing wears off, you may notice mild tenderness for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a warm salt-water rinse usually suffice. Sensitivity fades as gums heal and inflammation subsides.
Healing Timeline & What’s Normal
- 24–48 Hours: Minor soreness; soft foods and warm salt-water rinses help.
- 1–2 Weeks: Gums often look pinker and tighter; bleeding reduces.
- 4–6 Weeks: We recheck pocket depths and bleeding points to track progress.
- Long-Term: Maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months keep bacteria disrupted.
Home Care That Protects Your Results
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush angled at 45° to the gumline.
- Use interdental aids you’ll stick with—floss, soft picks, or a water flosser.
- Rinse alcohol-free with an anti-gingivitis formula if recommended.
- Hydrate and time sweets with meals to limit acid attacks.
- Nightguard support if you clench or grind, since heavy forces can stress healing gums.
Common Questions, Answered
Will my gums shrink? As swelling resolves, gums tighten and may reveal true tooth contours. That’s a healthy sign of reduced inflammation.
Will teeth get loose? Deep cleaning doesn’t loosen teeth; it helps stabilize them by controlling infection that weakens bone.
How often do I need this? The goal is to complete active therapy once, then maintain with 3–4 month periodontal maintenance visits—customized to your risk level.
Pairing Therapy With Whole-Health Habits
Gum health benefits from consistent sleep, stress management, and nutrition. If you have diabetes, improving blood sugar control supports healing. We’ll coordinate with your medical team as needed.
Benefits At A Glance
- Reduces bleeding, tenderness, and bad breath
- Helps gums reattach for healthier, shallower pockets
- Protects bone and lowers risk of tooth loss
- Creates a clean slate for easier home care
Take Control Of Your Gum Health
If you’ve been told you need a deep dental cleaning in Houston, we’ll make it smooth, comfortable, and measurable. Call Elite Dental Wellness at (713) 789-8680 to Book an Appointment.
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