Gum disease begins as gingivitis, inflammation, redness, and bleeding when you brush or floss. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the bone supporting the teeth begins to recede and pockets form between the tooth and gum that trap bacteria. Deep cleaning is the intervention that stops this progression before it costs you teeth.
Common signs you may need a deep cleaning
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy, or tender gums
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer than before
- Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing
- Pocket depths of 4mm or greater on your last dental exam
- Teeth that feel loose or have begun to shift
If two or more of these apply to you, a periodontal evaluation is worth scheduling. Caught early, deep cleaning can resolve the issue in two visits and protect your smile for decades.
The process, start to finish
The visit begins with a thorough periodontal assessment, measuring the depth of the space between each tooth and gum, reviewing imaging, and discussing the right pace for treatment. Most patients receive deep cleaning across two appointments (one side of the mouth per visit) so each session is unhurried.
Local anesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable. Ultrasonic scalers break apart hardened deposits below the gum line, followed by fine hand instruments that finish the root surface to a smooth, polished finish. An antimicrobial rinse closes the visit.
Mild gum tenderness and slight sensitivity to cold are normal for two to four days afterward, anti-inflammatory medication, warm salt water rinses, and softer foods carry you through. A follow-up visit at four to six weeks confirms that pocket depth has reduced and the gums are healing as expected.