A dental deep cleaning is the common term for a therapeutic procedure formally known as Scaling and Root Planing (SRP). This treatment is distinctly different from the routine cleanings performed during a regular check-up, which only focus on the tooth surfaces above the gumline. The purpose of SRP is specifically to treat an active bacterial infection and inflammation below the gumline, a condition known as periodontitis or advanced gum disease. By removing the hardened bacteria and smoothing the root surfaces, the procedure aims to halt disease progression and promote the healing of the gum tissues.
Determining When a Deep Cleaning is Necessary
A deep cleaning is necessary when a standard cleaning (prophylaxis) is no longer sufficient to manage bacterial buildup. The decision relies on a comprehensive periodontal evaluation looking for signs of active periodontitis, including inflammation, bleeding, and the formation of periodontal pockets. These pockets form when gum tissue separates from the tooth root due to plaque and tartar (calculus) below the gumline.
A dental professional uses a probe to assess the depth of these pockets around each tooth, a process known as periodontal charting. A healthy pocket depth is typically 3 millimeters or less, but depths of 4 millimeters or more often indicate the need for SRP. The diagnosis of periodontitis is confirmed by the presence of subgingival calculus, bleeding upon probing, and radiographic evidence of bone loss.
The Scaling and Root Planing Process
Since the procedure involves working deep below the gumline, local anesthesia is used to numb the gum tissue and surrounding bone for patient comfort. The treatment is often divided into multiple appointments, treating one or two quadrants of the mouth at a time. This approach prevents the inconvenience of numbing the entire mouth and allows the professional to focus on a smaller area for thorough cleaning.
The first stage of the procedure is scaling, which is the removal of plaque, bacterial toxins, and hardened tartar deposits from the tooth surfaces both above and below the gumline. This is achieved using specialized instruments, which typically include ultrasonic scalers that use high-frequency vibrations and a water spray to break apart the calculus. Manual instruments, such as curettes and scalers, are also utilized to meticulously scrape away deposits from the roots of the teeth.
The second, distinct stage is root planing, where the dental professional smooths the roughened surfaces of the tooth roots. The goal of this smoothing is to eliminate irregular spots on the root surface that can harbor bacteria. A smooth root surface makes it more difficult for bacteria to colonize and encourages the gum tissue to heal and reattach more firmly to the tooth.
Managing Immediate Recovery and Discomfort
Following the procedure, patients can expect temporary symptoms as the gum tissues begin to heal. Mild pain or aching in the treated areas is common, typically lasting only a day or two after the anesthesia wears off. Increased tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot and cold temperatures, is also a frequent side effect that can persist for a few days up to several weeks.
Gum tenderness and slight bleeding when brushing are normal occurrences during the first few days of recovery. To manage post-procedure discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are recommended. Patients should also gently rinse their mouths with a warm saltwater solution four to six times a day to soothe the gums and promote healing.
Temporary dietary changes are necessary to protect the healing gums. Patients should avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or highly acidic foods for the first 48 hours, consuming soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs instead. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can also help reduce any prolonged temperature sensitivity that occurs after the procedure.
Long-Term Maintenance After Treatment
The success of SRP relies heavily on a long-term commitment to a specialized care schedule to prevent the recurrence of periodontitis. Since gum disease is a chronic condition, the standard six-month cleaning is no longer sufficient. Patients are transitioned to a schedule of “periodontal maintenance” appointments, typically every three to four months.
These frequent visits allow the dental team to continually monitor gum tissue health, re-measure pocket depths, and remove harmful bacteria below the gumline. Without this specialized maintenance, bacteria can return within a few months and begin to re-destroy the gum tissue and supporting bone. Consistent home care, including regular brushing and flossing, is mandatory alongside professional maintenance to ensure the gums remain healthy.