Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure aimed at treating gum disease. Gum recession, which is the pulling back of gum tissue exposing more of the tooth root, is a common concern. Many individuals wonder if deep cleaning can cause this recession. This article will clarify what deep cleaning involves, explain the various causes of gum recession, and detail the actual relationship between deep cleaning and the appearance of gum recession.
What Deep Cleaning Involves
Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, addresses periodontal disease, an infection affecting gums and supporting bone. Unlike a routine dental cleaning that focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline, deep cleaning extends beneath it. It is recommended when significant plaque and tartar buildup lead to inflammation and the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums.
The procedure consists of two main parts. Scaling involves meticulously removing plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from the tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline. Following scaling, root planing is performed to smooth the tooth roots. This smoothing helps eliminate rough spots where bacteria can accumulate and encourages the gums to reattach more firmly to the cleaned tooth surfaces.
Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls back from teeth, exposing more root surface. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures, and may also make teeth appear longer. When gum tissue recedes, it can create small pockets or gaps between the teeth and the gumline, providing an environment where harmful bacteria can easily accumulate.
Several factors contribute to gum recession, many of which are unrelated to dental cleanings. Aggressive tooth brushing with excessive force or an improper technique can gradually wear away gum tissue. Periodontal disease itself, a bacterial infection causing inflammation and destruction of gum tissue and bone, is a leading cause of recession. Other contributing factors include genetic predisposition, tobacco use, misaligned teeth that place uneven pressure on gum tissue, and poor oral hygiene that allows plaque and tartar to build up.
The Relationship Between Deep Cleaning and Gum Recession
Deep cleaning does not directly cause gum recession. In reality, deep cleaning does not remove healthy gum tissue or create new recession. Instead, the procedure can often reveal pre-existing recession that was previously masked by inflamed, swollen gum tissue.
When gum disease is present, the gums often become swollen and inflamed due to bacterial infection and the body’s immune response. This swelling can make the gums appear fuller, temporarily hiding the extent of any underlying recession.
During a deep cleaning, the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria reduces this inflammation and swelling. As the gums heal and inflammation subsides, they return to their natural, healthier state. This reduction in swelling can make teeth appear longer, as the gum tissue may shrink back, revealing root surfaces already exposed by gum disease. Therefore, deep cleaning acts as a treatment for the underlying cause of recession (gum disease) and allows the true extent of tissue loss to become visible.
Post-Procedure Expectations and Long-Term Gum Health
After deep cleaning, patients may experience temporary sensations. It is common to have mild soreness, tenderness, or sensitivity in the gums and teeth, especially to hot or cold temperatures, for a few days to several weeks. Minor bleeding from the gums can also occur, particularly if the gums were significantly inflamed before the procedure. These effects are typically temporary and subside as the gums heal.
To maintain deep cleaning benefits and promote long-term gum health, consistent home care is essential. This includes gentle but thorough brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and daily flossing to remove plaque and prevent its re-accumulation. Regular follow-up appointments with a dental professional for maintenance cleanings, often every three to six months, are also important. These ongoing measures help prevent the recurrence of gum disease and further recession, preserving the health and stability of the gums and teeth.