Our Services / Deep Cleaning

What is deep cleaning?

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure used to remove plaque and tartar from underneath your gum line and the surfaces of your teeth. It’s a treatment that addresses periodontitis and is much more thorough than a traditional dental cleaning.

The team at Plenty O' Smiles performs traditional deep cleaning as well as deep cleaning with laser dentistry.

Deep cleaning usually takes one appointment. If you have gum disease and your full mouth requires treatment, several appointments may be necessary. It’s performed by a dental hygienist under local anesthesia, ensuring you experience no pain or discomfort. 

Why would I need a deep cleaning?

If the team at Plenty O' Smiles discovers signs of chronic gum disease, they recommend a deep cleaning. The procedure provides a relatively quick and convenient way to stop the infection from spreading and preserve the overall health of your mouth.

Chronic gum disease causes your gum tissue to recede or pull away from your teeth. This causes large pockets to form, providing a perfect home for harmful bacteria. As more bacteria grow, it’s difficult to eliminate them by brushing and flossing alone.

What are the symptoms of chronic gum disease?

Chronic gum disease affects everyone differently, but common indications include:

• Bleeding gums
• Inflamed, swollen, or tender gums
• Bad breath
• Loose or shifting permanent teeth
• A change in your bite
  
  

Anyone can experience chronic gum disease, but several factors increase your risk, including smoking, poor dental hygiene, and eating an unhealthy diet.

What happens during a deep cleaning?

At Plenty O' Smiles, Dr. Ovsepian performs deep cleaning with a local anesthetic to numb your tooth roots and gums. 

After the anesthesia sets in, he scales your teeth, removing plaque from in any large pockets and on the surfaces of your teeth. Next, he does a root planing procedure using a special handheld tool to smooth your tooth roots. This helps your gums reattach to your teeth, preventing further recession.

If you have a severe case of gum disease, Dr. Ovsepian might also recommend antibiotic treatment. He can apply antimicrobial agents to your teeth and gums, or he might prescribe antibiotics.

What are the benefits of a deep cleaning?

Deep cleaning can significantly improve your oral health. By reducing the pockets caused by periodontal disease, you’re much less likely to experience gum, tissue, and tooth loss.

To see if you’re a candidate for deep cleaning, schedule an appointment at Plenty O' Smiles. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a caring staff member today.