Blog
10
Sep
What To Know When Discerning The Difference Between A Routine and Deep Cleaning Treatment
If you have been told you need a dental deep cleaning, you might be wondering what makes it different from a regular cleaning and why it is necessary. At ClearCare Periodontal & Implant Centre, we provide advanced periodontal care, including deep cleanings, to help patients treat and manage gum disease effectively.
Below are some frequently asked questions patients have when trying to understand the purpose and benefits of a deep cleaning:
Why would I need a deep cleaning instead of a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, is designed to maintain healthy gums and remove plaque and tartar from above the gum line. Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is necessary when plaque and bacteria have accumulated beneath the gum line, causing inflammation, infection, or early stages of gum disease. If you have symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum pockets that measure deeper than 4mm, your dentist or periodontist may recommend a deep cleaning to stop the progression of periodontal disease.
How does deep cleaning work? What does it involve?
Deep cleaning is typically done in two stages: scaling and root planing. Scaling involves using specialized instruments to carefully remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gum line. Root planing smooths out the root surfaces to discourage bacteria from reattaching and allows the gums to reattach to the teeth more securely. This procedure may be done over one or two visits and is usually performed under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
Will a deep cleaning stop gum disease permanently?
A deep cleaning is an essential first step in controlling and managing gum disease, especially in its early to moderate stages. While it can significantly reduce inflammation and infection, long-term success depends on consistent oral hygiene and follow-up care. Gum disease is a chronic condition, so regular maintenance cleanings and periodontal checkups are often necessary to prevent recurrence. Our team will customize a treatment plan based on your needs and monitor your progress closely.
Is a deep cleaning painful or more uncomfortable than a regular cleaning?
Deep cleaning involves cleaning below the gum line, which can be more sensitive than routine cleanings. However, most patients are given a local anesthetic to numb the area being treated, making the procedure more comfortable. After the cleaning, you may experience some mild soreness, tenderness, or gum sensitivity for a few days. We recommend a soft diet and gentle rinsing to ease healing.
How do I know if I need a deep cleaning or if a regular cleaning is enough?
The only way to know for sure is through a thorough dental exam and periodontal assessment. Dr. Hosseini will evaluate your gum health, measure pocket depths around your teeth, and take X-rays if necessary to determine the extent of any bone loss or infection. If your gums are healthy and your pocket depths are within a normal range, a regular cleaning may be all that is needed. If there are signs of gum disease, a deep cleaning can help get your oral health back on track.
Call (204) 421-9236 or visit www.clearcareperio.com to schedule a consultation and get the answers you need to protect your smile.
Share this Article
Hoda Hosseini, DMD, MDent (Perio), FRCD(C)
Dr. Hoda Hosseini is a board-certified periodontist with extensive experience in general and specialized dental care. After earning her dental degree from the University of Manitoba in 2006, Dr. Hosseini participated in the Remote Access Program and furthered her expertise with a Masters in Dentistry in Periodontics and Implant Surgery. A Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and International Congress of Oral Implantologists, she is also a member of the Canadian Dental Association and Canadian and American Academy of Periodontists. Dr. Hosseini is a published author and esteemed educator, dedicated to advancing patient care and professional training.
Katie Chung, DDS, MDent
Dr. Katie Chung is a skilled periodontist with a rich educational background and extensive experience. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Toronto before returning to Vancouver to practice general dentistry. Driven by her passion for periodontology, Dr. Chung pursued a Masters of Dentistry at the University of Manitoba, where she received the esteemed Dean of the RFHS Graduate Student Achievement Prize. A proponent of gentle, evidence-based care, she is a valued member of the ClearCare family. Dr. Chung continually enhances her expertise through continuing education and international conferences and is dedicated to patient-first dentistry.
