Deep Cleaning
Deep Cleaning
Deep Cleanings are performed on individuals who have been diagnosed with periodontitis gum disease. There are three stages of periodontal disease. The goal of deep cleaning is to help stop the advancement of bacteria that can cause chronic and systemic infection and inflammation immune responses.
There are two parts of a deep cleaning: scaling followed by root planing. During the scaling, the dentist or dental hygienist will remove both plaque and calculus above and below the gumline. Root planing helps smooth out the roots to help with healthy reattachment of gums to the root surface. Deep Cleanings will often be performed in several visits. Although this is an outpatient procedure, the dentist may decide to give a local anesthetic to help with discomfort.
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
- Bone and tissue loss
- Tooth loss
- Loose teeth
- Moving teeth
- Swelling and/or infection
