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Dental Deep Gum Cleaning

Dental deep gum cleaning---also known as deep cleaning, deep tooth cleaning and scaling and root planing---is a periodontal procedure that removes plaque and tartar attached to the teeth above and below the gum line. Plaque is a sticky substance that is rich in bacteria. Plaque hardens over time and becomes tartar. Scaling and root planing, the procedural components of deep gum cleaning, may be necessary if you are experiencing any of the early symptoms of gum disease or periodontal disorder.

  1. Associated Conditions and Symptoms

    • Your dentist may suggest a deep gum cleaning if she discovers excesses of plaque and tartar on your teeth. Plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease and periodontal disorders such as gingivitis, gingivostomatitis and periodonitits. Gingivitis is a common condition and is the earliest, most treatable form of gum disease. Gingivostomatitis is an infection either bacterial or viral that causes sores and swelling of the mouth and gums. Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is untreated, causing plaque to spread and grow below the gum line. Deep gum cleaning can be an early step in the treatment of each condition

      Deep gum cleaning may be necessary if you experience symptoms such as chronic bad breath, bleeding gums, sores of the mouth and gums, spacing between teeth and gums or loose teeth. These symptoms can be indicative of one of the aforementioned gum diseases and conditions.

    Scaling

    • Scaling involves your dentist removing plaque and tartar attached to the surfaces of your teeth. This is most important for the tooth surfaces below the gum line, where your toothbrush cannot reach. Your dentist will use ultrasonic scalers that vibrate to remove plaque and tartar from the entire tooth surface in this first part of the deep gum cleaning.

    Root Planing

    • Root planing is the second part of the deep gum cleaning. Your dentist will use non-powered hand scalers and curettes to scrape away remaining plaque and tartar and smooth the tooth surfaces. Plaque and tartar adhere to smooth surfaces less easily than rough ones. Finally, your dentist will use a water irrigation system to rinse away loose plaque and tartar remains from around the teeth.

      Scaling and root planing for gingivitis patients are usually completed in one periodontal visit. In more extreme cases of gum disease, such as periodontitis, your doctor may elect to scale and root plane in sections over the course of multiple visits.

    Post-Procedure Care

    • You may experience discomfort such as soreness and temperature sensitivity for a few days after your deep gum cleaning. Use your preferred over-the-counter pain medication for any excessive discomfort.

      Assume proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice per day. Floss daily. Use an antiseptic mouthwash for at least 30 seconds twice per day. Consistent maintenance of oral hygiene is the most effective means of keeping plaque and tartar from forming, eliminating the need for deep gum cleaning.

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