What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning and Why Would I Need One?

Have you heard of a deep dental cleaning? You might be wondering how it differs from a routine cleaning, and whether it’s really necessary. While the name can sound a bit intimidating, deep cleanings play a vital role in preventing serious dental issues, especially if you're showing signs of gum disease.

Here at The Center for High Tech Dentistry in Upper East Side, Manhattan, New York, Kaveh Abedini, DMD, Simon Rosenberg, DMD, and our team offer the highest level of oral healthcare to keep your smile in great shape. We recommend deep dental cleanings to ensure the prevention of future oral health issues.

What is a deep dental cleaning?

Also known as scaling and root planing, a deep dental cleaning gently goes beyond the surface of your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup from beneath the gum line, helping keep your smile healthy and bright.

During a regular cleaning, our dental hygienist focuses on cleaning the visible surfaces of your teeth and just under your gums. But if bacteria build up deeper below your gum line, you need a more thorough approach.

Scaling involves carefully removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the pockets between your teeth and gums. Root planing smooths the root surfaces of your teeth to help the gums reattach and reduce the depth of those pockets. Together, these treatments help stop the progression of gum disease and give your mouth a chance to heal.

Why would I need one?

We recommend deep dental cleanings when you show signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease often starts with gingivitis (red, swollen, or bleeding gums) caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to bone and tooth loss.

Signs you may need a deep cleaning include:

Persistent bad breath
Red, tender, or bleeding gums
Gum recession (gums pulling away from the teeth)
Loose or shifting teeth
Deep pockets forming between your teeth and gums

Dr. Abedini or Dr. Rosenberg measures the depth of these pockets during a periodontal exam. If they measure more than 4 millimeters deep, it may be time for a deep cleaning.

What to expect

We usually spread out deep cleaning over two or more appointments, and sometimes numb the area to make it more comfortable. Afterward, you might notice a bit of sensitivity or soreness, but don't worry—it usually eases up within a few days.

You may also need follow-up appointments to monitor healing and maintain your oral health. In some cases, we may recommend additional treatments like antibiotics or laser therapy.

Schedule an evaluation

A deep dental cleaning is a key step in preventing tooth loss, protecting your long-term oral health, and giving you a cleaner smile.

A great start to learning more about your oral health is to book an appointment with our team for an examination. We can identify and address any early signs of gum disease before it worsens. With proper care, deep cleanings can help restore your gums and keep your smile healthy for years to come.

Call our office at 212-988-8822 today or book online at your convenience.