Teeth Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. 

It’s typically recommended when periodontal pockets – spaces between your teeth and gums – become too deep due to gum disease.

The Two-Step Process

1. Scaling: Removal of plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line
2. Root Planing: Smoothing of root surfaces to eliminate rough spots and infected tooth structure

When is Deep Cleaning Necessary?

Your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning if you show signs of:

Chronic Bad Breath

Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a sign of bacteria buildup below the gum line. If regular brushing and mouthwash don’t resolve the issue, it may indicate a need for deep cleaning.

Bleeding or Swollen Gums

If your gums bleed easily during brushing or flossing, or appear red and swollen, it’s often a sign of gingivitis or early-stage periodontitis. Deep cleaning can help remove the bacteria causing this inflammation and promote gum healing.

Loose Teeth

As gum disease progresses, it can cause the supporting structures of your teeth to weaken, resulting in tooth looseness. Deep cleaning can help halt this progression and potentially save your teeth from further mobility or loss.

Receding Gums

Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Deep cleaning can help stop the recession process and prevent further damage to your gum tissue and tooth roots.

Periodontal Pockets Deeper Than 4mm

Healthy gums typically have pockets measuring 1-3 mm deep. Pockets deeper than 4mm can harbor harmful bacteria that regular brushing can’t reach. Deep cleaning is essential to clean these pockets and prevent further deepening, which could lead to tooth loss.

The Deep Cleaning Procedure

Now, let’s take a closer look at the procedure:

Before the Treatment

Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:

• Reviewing your medical history
• Taking X-rays to assess bone loss
• Measuring the depth of periodontal pockets

During the Procedure

1. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure comfort
2. Special instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar
3. Root surfaces are smoothed to promote healing and prevent future buildup
4. The process may be completed in one or multiple visits, depending on the extent of the treatment needed

After Deep Cleaning

• You may experience some sensitivity and discomfort for a few days
• Your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to assess healing and measure pocket depth

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that can help treat gum disease and improve overall oral health. Some of the benefits include:

Halts Gum Disease Progression

Scaling and root planing effectively removes the bacteria causing gum disease. This stops the infection from advancing and allows your gums to heal.

Reduces Gum Inflammation

The procedure eliminates irritants causing gum inflammation and bleeding. As a result, your gums become healthier and more resilient to future infections.

Eliminates Bad Breath

By removing bacteria-laden plaque and tartar, the treatment addresses a major cause of halitosis. This leads to fresher breath and improved oral hygiene.

Protects Tooth Roots

Cleaning below the gum line safeguards exposed tooth roots from decay. This protection is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your teeth.

Prevents Tooth Loss

By treating gum disease, the procedure helps preserve the bone supporting your teeth. This significantly reduces the risk of tooth loss due to advanced periodontal disease.

Cost of Deep Cleaning in India

The cost of deep cleaning, which includes scaling and root planing, can vary depending on several factors such as the severity of the condition, the dentist’s expertise, and the location of the dental clinic. Here’s an overview of the costs in India:

• Basic teeth scaling: ₹800 – ₹3,500
• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): ₹1,500 – ₹5,000

It’s important to note that these are approximate ranges, and the actual cost may vary.