When gum tissue is healthy, a shallow groove that is no deeper than 3 millimeters should be between the teeth and gums, according to the American Dental Association, known as the ADA. Periodontal disease can cause the gum to develop a pocket that is deeper than 3 millimeters. Because deep pockets can collect more plaque and are more difficult to keep clean, deep cleanings are often the first step in reducing the problem.
Scaling and Root Planing
Deep cleanings consist of scaling and root planing. Scaling is the process of removing the tartar and plaque from the surfaces of the teeth down to the base of the gum pocket with the use of an instrument known as a small scaler or an ultrasonic cleaner. Root planing, which is done after scaling, removes remaining tartar and reduces any roughness at the root surfaces for a smooth appearance.
Effects
If gum pockets continue to deepen and tartar and plaque are allowed to thrive, periodontal disease may progress and eventually cause the bone structures to break down, says the ADA. However, scaling and root planing can remove bacteria in the pocket, give the gum tissue a chance to heal, and make the gum environment less hospitable to buildup of plaque.
Patient Comfort
Deep cleanings may be uncomfortable, particularly for those who have very deep gum pockets and severely irregular root surfaces. As a result, a dentist may opt to inject an anesthetic to numb the mouth or deliver a topical anesthetic gel to desensitize the gum pockets. However, some who receive deep cleanings may find no discomfort in the scraping that occurs on the teeth and in the gum grooves.
After Treatment
Those getting a deep cleaning may experience some tooth sensitivity as well as bleeding and soreness in the gums after a deep cleaning. The discomfort will be temporary and can typically be alleviated with over-the-counter painkillers. Daily brushing and flossing should continue after treatment, but it may need to be done more gently until the gum areas become less tender. A dentist or dental hygienist may recommend using an antiseptic or saltwater rinse after treatment.
Risks
As with any dental cleaning procedure, the tools used to remove deposits on the teeth could cause laceration to the gums if used inappropriately by a poorly trained dental hygienist. The cleaning may cause some small amount of abrasions on tooth enamel and root surfaces. The more severe the gum disease, the more gums are likely to recede after therapy, causing part of the root to become exposed and causing extra sensitivities to cold and heat. However, when considering the procedure's capacity to reverse many dangers of periodontal disease, the risks are nearly negligible.
