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Deep Cleaning and Scaling

Dental deep cleaning is a more common term for periodontal scaling and root planing. Unlike routine cleanings and checkups, which help prevent periodontal (gum) disease (also called periodontitis), dental deep cleanings treat gum disease by cleaning out bacterial deposits from underneath diseased gum tissue. Periodontal disease is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to bigger oral health problems including shifting or loose teeth, swelling or infection in other parts of the mouth or face, and bone and tissue loss in the jaw. To preserve the health and strength of your teeth, periodontal disease should be treated as early as possible.

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What does a dental deep cleaning procedure entail?

A dental deep cleaning is a two-phased procedure that can be performed in your dentist’s office. During the first phase—scaling—the hygienist will use a small tool called a scaler to remove the accumulated tartar from your teeth and gums. Then, they will begin planing—or smoothing—the roots of the teeth, reattaching them to the gums. 

 

A standard deep cleaning takes about an hour per quadrant. While most insurances will pay for two quadrants at a time, your cleaning will depend on whether or not the dentist’s schedule allows for a two-hour block. Most patients who require a full deep cleaning will need to plan on two to four visits.

Does dental deep cleaning hurt?

Dental deep cleaning is completed under local anesthetic. Before your provider begins cleaning, a topical anesthesia gel will be applied to your gums before they are injected with the local anesthetic. This ensures you don’t feel any discomfort or pain during the procedure.

Because periodontal disease is often accompanied by gum sensitivity, which can cause discomfort and pain when the teeth and gums are touched, your gums and teeth may already be in a slight amount of pain and discomfort before you even begin the deep cleaning procedure. Any other pain you may feel after the cleaning will be mild, can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication, and usually subsides within a few days.

How much does dental deep cleaning cost?

Your mouth is divided into four quadrants—upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. Standard deep cleaning treatments are usually priced per quadrant, and depending on the severity of your periodontitis, your dentist may also recommend that you schedule periodontal maintenance cleanings every four months, which can have additional costs per visit. For current and accurate deep cleaning pricing, be sure to contact Dental Depot DFW.

As long as your dentist can provide proof of a periodontal disease diagnosis, your insurance company will most likely cover the cost of a deep cleaning. If yours does not, Dental Depot DFW is ready to help with financing, savings, credit, and payment plans to help you afford the essential dental care you need.

What are the benefits of a dental deep cleaning?

Dental deep cleaning is a non-surgical alternative for treating periodontitis, especially in the early stages. Unlike gum surgery, which removes the gum tissue, dental deep cleaning reduces gum pocket depths without damaging the gums or tissue. Dental deep cleaning can also be performed under local anesthesia in your dentist’s office and often in only one visit. Most patients see results almost immediately and experience only minimal, if any, pain or discomfort after the procedure.

How do I care for my mouth after a dental deep cleaning?

A dental deep cleaning is essentially a “fresh start” for your mouth. With virtually all of the bacteria removed, this is a great opportunity to improve upon your healthy oral hygiene habits or develop them if you haven’t already, including twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush, daily flossing, and using a mouth rinse before and after flossing. 

Immediately after the procedure, you may be prescribed an antimicrobial mouthwash with chlorhexidine gluconate to help control the bacteria in your mouth and prevent infection, and over-the-counter pain medication can help with any mild pain or discomfort you may be feeling. You may also need to schedule more frequent follow-up cleaning visits, such as every three to four months instead of the regular six.

Deep cleaning and scaling at Dental Depot DFW

Dental Depot DFW provides the individualized, comprehensive dental care you deserve for a lifetime of healthy teeth. Our on-site team of dental professionals and specialists is dedicated to meeting your oral hygiene needs at every stage of life, and we treat everyone in your family. With flexible scheduling, Saturday appointments, and multiple locations, Dental Depot DFW makes it easy for you and your family to fit quality dental care into your busy lifestyle. To find out more about dental deep cleanings at Dental Depot in Dallas, Lewisville, Aubrey, The Colony, McKinney, Arlington, and Highland Village, schedule an appointment today.

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