If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning, or if you’re just curious about what it involves, this guide will walk you through everything from what to expect during the procedure to how it can benefit your long-term oral health.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning goes beyond a regular dental cleaning (known as prophylaxis). While routine cleanings focus on the surfaces of the teeth and the gumline, deep cleaning targets the areas beneath the gums. It’s typically recommended for patients with signs of periodontal (gum) disease.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Numbing the Area
A local anesthetic is applied to numb your gums and teeth. You might feel a little pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain.
Scaling
Using special tools, your hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and below your gumline. Ultrasonic instruments may also be used for more effective plaque disruption.
Root Planing
This involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of your roots. Bacteria cling more easily to rough surfaces, so smoothing them helps prevent reinfection and allows the gums to heal and reattach more firmly.
Irrigation or Antibiotic Application (If Needed)
Some providers use antimicrobial rinses or place localized antibiotics directly in the gum pockets to fight infection and promote healing.
Aftercare Instructions
Once the cleaning is done, you’ll be given detailed home care instructions. This may include using medicated mouth rinses, special toothpaste, or instructions to avoid certain foods temporarily.
What Does Recovery Look Like?
Most patients recover quickly after a deep cleaning, especially when they follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions.
You may experience:
- Mild soreness or sensitivity in the treated area
- Slight bleeding for a day or two
- Temporary gum tenderness
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft-food diet for the first 24-48 hours. You’ll likely be scheduled for a follow-up visit to monitor your healing and to measure the pockets again to see if they’ve reduced in depth.
Is Deep Cleaning Worth It?
Yes, deep cleaning is absolutely worth it for those who need it! The benefits go beyond fresh breath and cleaner teeth. Here’s why it’s a valuable investment in your health:
- Tooth Loss Prevention: Gum disease is a major cause of adult tooth loss. By removing the bacteria and allowing the gums to reattach, deep cleaning helps preserve your natural teeth.
- Reduction of Gum Inflammation: Left untreated, inflamed gums can recede and form deeper pockets, which harbor even more bacteria. Deep cleaning interrupts this destructive cycle.
- Improvement to Overall Health: Studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and systemic issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. By treating gum disease, you’re also supporting your general health.
- A Boost In Confidence: A cleaner mouth often means fresher breath, less bleeding when brushing, and a smile that feels healthier, all of which improve confidence in social and professional settings.
Common Myths About Deep Cleaning
There are a few misconceptions that often make patients nervous. Let’s clear those up:
- It’s the same as a regular cleaning. Deep cleaning is much more intensive. It targets areas beneath the gumline that standard cleanings don’t reach.
- It’s painful. With modern anesthesia and techniques, discomfort is minimal. Most patients say they feel pressure, not pain.
- I only need it once. Depending on your oral health, you might need periodic deep cleanings. Your dentist will create a personalized maintenance plan.
- My gums will recede. Recession may occur if gum disease is already advanced, but deep cleaning itself does not cause gums to recede. In fact, it helps gums reattach.
The Cost of Deep Cleaning in La Puente
Costs can vary depending on how many quadrants need treatment, whether antibiotics are used, and the level of severity. In La Puente, deep cleaning generally ranges from $150 to $300 per quadrant. Some insurance plans cover it partially or in full, especially if there’s documented periodontal disease.
Even if you don’t have insurance, many dental offices in the area offer flexible payment plans, helping you prioritize your health without breaking the bank.
How to Maintain Results After a Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning can have lasting benefits, but only if you take care of your teeth and gums afterward. Here’s how to maintain your results:
- Brush and floss daily.
- Use an antimicrobial rinse.
- Stay on top of dental visits.
- Quit smoking.
- Eat a gum-friendly diet.
Final Thoughts: A Healthier Smile Starts Now
Deep teeth cleaning is not only a critical procedure for addressing existing gum disease, but it’s also a powerful preventative measure that can protect your teeth and gums for years to come. When done at the right time and followed with good at-home care, deep cleaning can stop gum disease in its tracks, restore gum health, and give you a clean slate for better oral hygiene moving forward.
Take Control of Your Gum Health With Deep Cleaning at La Puente Family Dental!
If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning or are concerned about signs of gum disease, the caring team at La Puente Family Dental is here to help. We specialize in personalized periodontal care that gets results without judgment or pressure. Let us guide you toward a healthier smile with expert deep cleaning services and gentle support every step of the way. Call (626)-968-3793 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting oral health.