A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This process targets bacteria and hardened deposits that regular brushing and flossing cannot reach. The goal of this treatment is to reduce inflammation, eliminate infection, and create a healthier environment for your gums.
Understanding Gum Healing and Reattachment
After a deep cleaning, “reattachment” refers to the formation of a tighter, healthier seal between the gum tissue and the tooth root as inflammation subsides. This procedure does not regrow lost gum tissue or bone damaged by advanced gum disease. Instead, it encourages existing gum tissue to re-adapt and form a more secure connection to the tooth surface.
Immediately following the procedure, it is common to experience tenderness, swelling, and minor bleeding for a few days. Within a week or two, you should notice a significant reduction in gum inflammation and sensitivity as initial healing progresses. The gradual re-adaptation and tightening of the gum tissue to the root surface can take several weeks, with gums starting to snugly fit around the teeth within two to four weeks. Complete healing and maturation of the tissues around the tooth can extend from a few months up to a year, depending on the individual and the severity of the initial gum disease. The goal is a healthier, tighter pocket around the teeth, even if complete reattachment to original levels is not always achieved in cases of significant bone loss.
Supporting Optimal Gum Healing
To promote optimal healing and gum reattachment after a deep cleaning, consistent and meticulous oral hygiene is key. Gently brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, focusing on the gumline to remove plaque buildup. Daily flossing and interdental cleaning, as advised by your dentist, are also important to remove food particles and bacteria from between your teeth and under the gumline.
Avoiding irritants like smoking and alcohol can support the healing process. Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums and can hinder your body’s ability to fight infection. Initially, consume soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t disturb the healing gum tissue, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or soft-cooked vegetables. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria. Managing existing health conditions, such as diabetes, is also important as they can impact your body’s healing capabilities. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist is important for monitoring your healing progress and addressing any concerns.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort and sensitivity are normal after a deep cleaning, contact your dentist if you experience signs of a complication. These include persistent or worsening pain that does not subside after the first few days. Excessive or prolonged bleeding beyond the initial 24 to 48 hours also warrants contact.
Swelling that does not decrease or appears to worsen, along with signs of infection such as pus or unusual discharge from the gums, warrants immediate attention. A high fever or feeling unusually tired in conjunction with oral symptoms may also indicate a systemic infection. If your gums do not appear to be healing or do not feel tighter after the expected timeframe, contact your dental professional. Prompt reporting allows for early intervention and appropriate management.