Deep Cleaning

During a deep cleaning procedure, you can expect your dentist or hygienist to remove deep pockets of infection below the gum line. Because this can be a fairly invasive process, patients are typically given a local anesthetic to numb the area of the gum line being treated. Any kind of plaque, tartar, or debris is removed both above and below the gum line during treatment. The provider performing the deep cleaning will use surgical instruments to remove the substances causing the infection, and sometimes even an ultrasonic scaler. Afterwards, the provider will shape, or ‘plane’, the root of the tooth. This creates a smooth surface which will make cleaning the tooth enamel much easier, and can help prevent plaque from collecting in the area. Depending on how bad the infection has gotten, the procedure is generally performed in two sessions, and sometimes repeated a few more times to stabilize the gum disease and prevent it from worsening.