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

Don’t put off getting recommended dental services, such as deep cleanings. Issues like gum disease can often go unnoticed while continuing to cause damage to your oral health.

Gum disease, affecting roughly two of every five adults, can quietly undermine oral health. Without prompt and effective intervention, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Moreover, gum disease can impact your general health, with links to serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes.

A deep dental cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, is a proactive measure that stops gum disease from progressing and restores gum health.

The skilled providers at SPA Dental Group in Midtown East, Manhattan, New York City, combine advanced dental care with a spa-like environment to ensure your comfort. Our team, led by Dr. Shebani Pahwa and Dr. Maham Siddiqui, offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services, including preventive treatments like deep cleanings.

Spa Dental Group prioritizes patient comfort with amenities such as aromatherapy, sedation options, and luxurious treatment suites.

Oral health benefits of a deep dental cleaning

A deep dental cleaning is a nonsurgical procedure targeting plaque and tartar removal from beneath the gum line. This treatment is essential when gum disease has progressed beyond the early stage of gingivitis, leading to deeper pockets between the teeth and gums.

Thoroughly cleaning these areas prevents further damage and promotes gum reattachment to the teeth.

When is deep dental cleaning recommended?

SPA Dental Group providers recommend deep cleanings when there are signs of gum disease, including:

Persistent bad breath
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Gum recession
Loose teeth

These symptoms suggest plaque and tartar have accumulated below the gumline, requiring a more intensive cleaning to restore oral health.

The procedure explained

The deep cleaning process involves two main steps:

Scaling is a plaque and tartar removal process involving the tooth surfaces and the area beneath the gums. Root planing, smoothing of the tooth roots to help gums reattach and prevent future bacterial buildup, is the other main step.

Depending on the severity of the buildup, the procedure may be completed in one or multiple visits. Local anesthesia is often used to ensure patient comfort during the treatment.

Post-treatment care

After a deep cleaning, it's common to experience some sensitivity and mild discomfort, which typically resolves within a few days. Your SPA Dental Group provider may recommend:

Using a desensitizing toothpaste
Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash
Maintaining a soft diet for a short period

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.

Prevention is key

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital to prevent the need for deep cleanings. This includes:

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings

Lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco, also play a role in maintaining good oral health.

Prioritize your oral health

Early intervention is crucial in combating gum disease. If you're experiencing symptoms or it's been a while since your last dental visit, contact one of our two convenient Midtown East, Manhattan offices today to request an appointment.

The SPA Dental Group team is committed to providing elevated personalized care in a comfortable setting. Rely on our team to ensure you maintain a bright, confident smile!