Why Regular Cleanings Aren’t Enough: When You Need a Deep Cleaning

Most people think that visiting the dentist twice a year for a standard cleaning is enough to keep their smiles healthy. While that’s true for many patients, others may need a more advanced type of cleaning called a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.

At CharlottePerio, we often see patients with gum disease who are surprised to learn that a regular cleaning can’t address their oral health concerns. Understanding the difference between routine cleanings and deep cleanings can help you protect your gums, prevent tooth loss, and maintain long-term oral health.

What Is a Regular Dental Cleaning?

A regular dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, is designed for patients with generally healthy gums. During this procedure, a dental hygienist removes soft plaque and minor tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces and along the gumline.

Routine cleanings focus on the visible areas of the teeth, above the gums, where daily brushing and flossing may miss debris. This helps prevent gum irritation, cavities, and early stages of gingivitis.

Benefits of Regular Cleanings

• Keeps teeth looking bright and polished
  
• Prevents buildup of plaque and tartar
  
• Helps prevent gum disease
  
• Allows your dentist to spot issues early
  

However, if plaque hardens below the gumline and bacteria begin to damage the bone and tissue, a regular cleaning is no longer enough. That’s when you may need a deep cleaning.

When Regular Cleanings Aren’t Enough

If you have persistent bad breath, red or bleeding gums, or gum tenderness, you might be experiencing the early stages of periodontal disease. This condition occurs when bacteria accumulate below the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection.

During this stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating “pockets.” These spaces trap bacteria and debris that can’t be reached by brushing, flossing, or standard cleanings.

If left untreated, gum disease can cause:

• Gum recession
  
• Bone loss around the teeth
  
• Tooth mobility or loss
  
• Chronic inflammation that may affect overall health

In such cases, your dentist or periodontist may recommend a deep cleaning to restore gum health and prevent further damage.

What Is a Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?

A deep cleaning is a specialized periodontal procedure that treats gum infection at its source. It goes beneath the surface to remove hardened plaque (tartar) and smooth the roots of the teeth, allowing the gums to heal and reattach.

The treatment has two main parts:

1. Scaling

This step involves using ultrasonic tools or hand instruments to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, along the tooth roots, and inside periodontal pockets.

2. Root Planing

After scaling, your periodontist smooths the tooth roots to discourage future bacterial buildup and allow the gum tissue to reattach firmly to the tooth.

Depending on your condition, the procedure may be done in one or more visits, and local anesthesia is often used for comfort.

Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning

You might not always feel pain when gum disease begins, but several warning signs can indicate that your gums need more than a regular cleaning:

• Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
  
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
  
• Gums that appear swollen, red, or tender
  
• Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
  
• Loose or shifting teeth
  
• Deep pockets between your teeth and gums (usually detected during an exam)
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a periodontal evaluation at CharlottePerio. Early intervention can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later.

Why Deep Cleanings Are Crucial for Gum Health

Unlike cavities, which affect the teeth, periodontal disease attacks the supporting structures of the mouth. The infection weakens the attachment between teeth and gums, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss if untreated.

Deep cleaning helps stop this destructive cycle by:

• Removing infection-causing bacteria from below the gums
  
• Allowing the gums to reattach to clean root surfaces
  
• Reducing inflammation and pocket depth
  
• Preventing bone and tissue loss
  

Once the infection is controlled, most patients notice healthier gums, fresher breath, and improved overall comfort.

What to Expect After a Deep Cleaning

It’s common to experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days after a deep cleaning. Your gums may feel sore or slightly swollen, but these effects fade quickly as healing begins.

Your periodontist may recommend:

• Warm saltwater rinses to soothe the gums
  
• Over-the-counter pain relief if needed
  
• Antibacterial mouthwash to control bacteria
  
• A soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle cleaning
  

After a few weeks, your gums should feel firmer and healthier, and your breath will likely improve. Follow-up visits allow your dental team to measure pocket depth and ensure the infection has been eliminated.

The Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

Once you’ve had a deep cleaning, maintaining your gum health is key to preventing recurrence. Periodontal disease is a chronic condition, meaning ongoing care is essential.

Your dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months instead of the standard 6-month visits. These appointments focus on keeping the gums free of bacteria and preventing the return of infection.

By maintaining this schedule and practicing excellent home care, you can keep your gums healthy for life.

Protecting More Than Your Smile

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can impact your overall health. Research links periodontal infections to conditions such as:

• Heart disease
  
• Diabetes
  
• Respiratory illness
  
• Pregnancy complications
  

By treating gum disease early with deep cleaning, you’re also supporting your total body health. Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy life.

Conclusion: Invest in Deep Cleaning Before It’s Too Late

While regular dental cleanings are crucial for prevention, they can’t treat active gum disease. If your gums are bleeding, receding, or showing signs of infection, it’s time to consider a deep cleaning.

At CharlottePerio, our experienced periodontal specialists use advanced techniques to gently remove bacteria, restore gum health, and protect your smile from future problems. Early treatment not only saves your gums but can also prevent the need for costly restorative procedures later.

Don’t wait until gum disease progresses.
Schedule your periodontal evaluation at CharlottePerio today and find out if you need a deep cleaning to protect your smile and overall health.