What is a deep cleaning of the teeth and the five steps involved?

The deep cleaning procedure is most often performed on patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, or “gum disease.” If not properly treated, this condition can cause inflammation, infection, and eventually tooth loss. Deep cleaning is a more intensive form of regular dental cleaning and involves removing plaque and tartar build-up from below the gum line.

1. Assessment and diagnosis of periodontal disease. Before beginning the deep cleaning procedure, our periodontists assess your oral health and diagnose any potential indications of periodontal diseases. This typically involves examining the gums for signs of inflammation, measuring the exact depth of periodontal pockets, and taking dental X-rays to determine if periodontal disease is present. This assessment and diagnosis step is crucial in determining the severity of gum disease and creating an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
2. Scaling. The first step in a periodontal deep cleaning is scaling, which involves removing the plaque and tartar build-up from above and below the gum line using specialized instruments. Plaque is a sticky film created from bacteria that forms on the surfaces of the teeth and may harden into tartar if it is not removed. This process is essential in treating gum disease because plaque and tartar are the main culprits for causing inflammation and infection in the gums.
3. Root planing. The second step in periodontal deep cleaning is root planing, which involves smoothing out rough spots on the roots of the natural teeth to prevent future build-up of plaque and tartar. This process also helps the gums reattach to the teeth, promoting healing and reducing pocket depth.
4. Antibiotic treatment. In some cases, antibiotics might be prescribed to you to help control bacterial growth and infection in the gums during or after a periodontal deep cleaning.
5. Follow-up appointments. After a periodontal deep cleaning, it is important to schedule follow-up appointments with your periodontist or regular dental team. These routine appointments allow them to monitor the healing process closely and make any needed adjustments to your specific treatment plan.