When gum disease progresses beyond the early stage of gingivitis, a standard dental cleaning is no longer enough. This is where deep teeth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, becomes essential. At California Dental Group, we provide this specialized treatment to target bacteria below the gumline, reduce inflammation, and stop gum disease from causing permanent damage.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of your teeth, deep cleaning addresses areas where harmful bacteria thrive beneath the gums. It has two main steps:
- Scaling: Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria deposits from above and below the gumline.
- Root Planing: Smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth so gums can reattach and bacteria have fewer places to hide.
This procedure is highly effective in halting gum disease progression and promoting gum health.
When Is It Necessary?
Deep cleaning is often recommended when gum disease has advanced to periodontitis. Signs you may need this treatment include:
- Persistent gum bleeding
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Gum recession or teeth that look longer than before
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing
- Loose teeth or bone loss seen on X-rays
If you notice these symptoms, your dentist at California Dental Group may suggest scaling and root planing to prevent further damage.
What to Expect During Treatment
Deep cleaning can typically be completed in one or two visits, depending on the severity of gum disease. Here’s what patients can expect:
- Local anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Scaling: Specialized instruments remove tartar and bacteria from beneath the gumline.
- Root planing: The roots of the teeth are smoothed to encourage gum reattachment.
- Aftercare instructions: Your dentist will provide guidance on managing soreness, keeping gums clean, and promoting healing.
Mild tenderness is common after treatment, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning
Scaling and root planing offer several important benefits:
- Stops the progression of gum disease
- Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
- Prevents further bone and tooth loss
- Restores gum attachment to teeth
- Improves breath and overall oral health
By tackling the infection at its source, deep cleaning helps preserve your natural teeth and protect your long-term health.
Supporting Recovery and Prevention
After a deep cleaning, your gums need ongoing care. Patients often benefit from more frequent periodontal maintenance visits—every three to four months—rather than standard six-month check-ups. Maintaining good oral hygiene at home with proper brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash is also essential to prevent gum disease from returning.
A Step Toward Healthier Gums
Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective tools in modern dentistry for treating gum disease without surgery. At California Dental Group, our experienced team ensures the process is thorough yet gentle, restoring health to your gums and helping you keep your natural teeth for life.
If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning or are experiencing gum disease symptoms, don’t wait. Call California Dental Group at 800-407-0161 today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile.
