How is deep teeth cleaning different from regular teeth cleaning?

When you hear the phrase “deep teeth cleaning,” what comes to mind? Maybe you picture whitening kits or an extra-thorough brushing session after a popcorn binge. If so, you’re not alone! Many people aren’t quite sure what deep teeth cleaning really involves or how it’s different from regular dental cleaning.

While regular teeth cleaning focuses on keeping your teeth clean and preventing gum disease, deep teeth cleaning is a targeted treatment to address gum disease that’s already developed. It’s a form of gum therapy, targeting not just the surface of your teeth but the pockets between your gums and roots.

At Distinctive Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you keep your teeth and gums healthy with personalized care. Our expert dentist, Dr. Noelle M. Klemann, provides preventative dental services, such as regular dental cleanings and treatments, like deep dental cleaning, to protect your smile and treat gum health issues.

What is regular teeth cleaning?

Regular teeth cleaning is part of a preventative dental care routine that helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevent gum disease. It involves scaling and polishing teeth to keep them clean and free of plaque build-up.

During regular teeth cleaning, the dentist focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the visible parts of your teeth, including the areas just above and slightly below the gum line.

Who needs regular teeth cleaning?

Everyone! At Distinctive Dentistry, we recommend getting a regular teeth cleaning and oral exam every six months. These routine visits are essential to:

Prevent gum disease
Remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking
Identify potential dental problems before they escalate

Think of it as your biannual tune-up to keep your teeth and gums in top shape.

How long does regular teeth cleaning take?

Regular cleanings are usually quick and efficient, often completed in a single visit lasting about 30 to 60 minutes.

Is regular teeth cleaning painful?

Nope! Regular teeth cleanings are non-invasive and painless. You might feel some mild pressure or sensitivity during the cleaning process, but most patients find it to be a comfortable experience.

What is deep teeth cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more involved procedure used to treat gum disease or periodontitis. Unlike a regular cleaning, a deep cleaning goes beneath the gum line to clean out the tartar, plaque, and bacteria that have accumulated in the “pockets” between your teeth and gums.

Usually, healthy teeth and gums have a pocket or space between them that measures 3 millimeters or less. However, when you have gingivitis or other gum problems, this pocket becomes more expansive and has a higher chance of trapping tartar and plaque.

Deep cleaning consists of two critical steps:

Scaling: This process removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and the deeper pockets (4 millimeters or more) between your teeth and gums. It thoroughly cleans the areas that regular cleanings cannot reach.
Root planing: In this step, the roots of your teeth are smoothed out. Smoothing the root surfaces makes it harder for bacteria to cling to them and encourages your gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. It also reduces the size of gum pockets, lowering the risk of further plaque and tartar buildup.

When do you need deep teeth cleaning?

You might need a deep teeth cleaning appointment if:

Your gum pockets, the space between your gums and teeth, measure 5 millimeters or more.
You have symptoms of gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis (gum disease), such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Your dentist notices significant tartar buildup below the gum line during your check-up.

At Distinctive Dentistry, we carefully assess your gum health during routine exams. If we detect signs of gum disease, we’ll discuss the best treatment options with you, which might include a deep cleaning procedure.

How long does deep teeth cleaning take?

Unlike regular cleaning, deep teeth cleaning often requires two or more visits, depending on the severity of your gum condition. To make the process comfortable, we usually treat one side of the mouth at a time, so you won’t need to have your entire mouth anesthetized in one sitting.

Does deep teeth cleaning hurt?

Deep teeth cleaning can cause mild discomfort, especially if the pockets are deep or your gums are sensitive. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area and make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

What happens during a deep teeth cleaning procedure?

A deep teeth cleaning procedure is more involved than your routine cleaning, but our team ensures the process is as seamless and comfortable as possible. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during the procedure:

Initial assessment: We’ll discuss your dental history, any medications you’re taking, and the dental concerns you have. X-rays may be recommended to get a detailed look at your teeth and gums.
Periodontal charting: Our dentist will measure the depth of your gum pockets using a special tool. Healthy pockets are typically 1–3 mm deep. If deeper pockets are found, it’s a sign that bacteria have made themselves at home, and deeper cleaning is needed.
Administering local anesthetic: Before starting the cleaning process, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area. This ensures your comfort throughout the procedure.
Scaling: Using ultrasonic tools and hand scalers, we’ll remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. This step is crucial for eliminating the source of infection.
Root planing: The roots of your teeth are smoothed out to make it harder for bacteria to stick and form colonies in the future.
Fluoride treatment: To protect and strengthen your enamel, we’ll apply a fluoride treatment after cleaning.

The procedure is often spread across two or more visits to ensure thorough care without overwhelming you.

What post-procedure care is needed after deep teeth cleaning?

Post-procedure care after deep cleaning is necessary to promote healing and prevent complications. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth recovery:

Saltwater rinse: Begin rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution 24 hours after your procedure. Doing this 4-6 times a day for about a week helps keep the treated areas clean and reduces the risk of infection.
Gentle brushing & flossing: For the first few days, be gentle when brushing and flossing to avoid irritating your gums. A soft-bristled toothbrush is your best friend during this time.
Use mouthwash: Rinse with a dentist-recommended antibacterial mouthwash 1–2 times daily to keep harmful bacteria at bay and aid the healing process.
Adjust your diet: Stick to soft, non-spicy foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups for at least 48 hours. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky snacks for about a week to prevent irritation to your healing gums.
Follow medication instructions: If your dentist prescribes medication or a special rinse, follow the instructions carefully to support healing.

Our team at Distinctive Dentistry will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your needs. A follow-up appointment will also be scheduled to check on your progress and ensure your gums are healing properly.

What are the benefits of deep teeth cleaning?

Deep cleaning isn’t just a solution for gum disease—it’s an investment in your oral health. Here are some key benefits:

Deep cleaning addresses the root cause of gum problems before they escalate.
Removing bacteria helps your gums heal and reduces the risk of further damage.
Cleaning below the gumline prevents damage to the roots of your teeth.
Deep cleaning eliminates persistent bad breath caused by bacteria and tartar buildup.
Deep cleaning helps restore the health of your gums, teeth, and even your confidence.

At Distinctive Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you enjoy all these benefits through personalized care tailored to your needs.

Are there any disadvantages to deep cleaning?

While deep cleaning is highly effective, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Temporary sensitivity: Your teeth and gums may feel sensitive for a short period of time after the procedure.
Mild discomfort: Some patients experience slight discomfort during or after the cleaning, but this can be managed with anesthetics and pain relievers.
Potential for infection: In rare cases, there’s a small risk of infection following the procedure, but your dentist will provide post-care instructions to minimize the possibility of this.

Our team at Distinctive Dentistry takes every precaution to ensure your deep cleaning appointment is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Book A Deep Teeth Cleaning Appointment in Clackamas, OR

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum problems or have been told you need a deep cleaning, don’t wait. Dr. Klemann and our skilled team at Distinctive Dentistry in Clackamas, OR, are here to help.

Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or require deep teeth cleaning to address gum problems, we are here for you. We offer a full range of services, from preventative dental care to advanced periodontal treatments, all designed to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

To schedule a consultation with our dentist, please call us at (503) 698-4884 or book an appointment online.

FAQs Deep Teeth Cleaning

Does deep teeth cleaning hurt?

Deep teeth cleaning can cause some discomfort, especially if you have sensitive gums or deep pockets around your teeth. At Distinctive Dentistry, we use local anesthesia to numb the area and make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

How long does deep teeth cleaning take?

The duration of a deep teeth cleaning procedure depends on the severity of gum disease and the number of teeth that need treatment. Typically, the procedure is completed over two or more visits. At Distinctive Dentistry, we carefully plan your appointments to provide thorough care without overwhelming your schedule.

Does regular teeth cleaning hurt?

Routine teeth cleaning is a non-invasive procedure and is generally painless. At Distinctive Dentistry, our skilled dental hygienists take great care to make your regular cleanings a comfortable experience while keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Does scaling and root planning hurt?

Scaling and root planing, a key component of deep teeth cleaning, may feel slightly uncomfortable. However, at Distinctive Dentistry, we use advanced techniques and local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during your treatment.

Does deep teeth cleaning require anesthesia?

Yes, deep teeth cleaning often requires local anesthesia to ensure that the procedure is as pain-free as possible. At Distinctive Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and provide personalized care tailored to your needs.

Can I get an infection from dental cleaning?

Infections after dental cleanings are rare, but they can occur if proper aftercare isn’t followed. Our team at Distinctive Dentistry will provide you with detailed post-procedure instructions to help you heal effectively and minimize any risks.