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Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning in Cherry Creek removes bacteria below the gums to treat gum disease, reduce inflammation, and protect long-term oral health.

Gentle Gum Care with Scaling & Root Planing

Deep Cleaning at The Dental Team

Gum health is just as important as healthy teeth.

At The Dental Team in Cherry Creek, we provide deep cleanings—also called scaling and root planing—to treat gum disease, reduce inflammation, and protect the bone that supports your teeth. This non-surgical treatment goes beyond a standard cleaning to restore gum health and help prevent tooth loss.

Deep Cleaning At A Glance

  • Also Known As: Scaling and Root Planing
  • Purpose: Treats gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gumline
  • Ideal For: Patients with bleeding gums, gum recession, or persistent bad breath
  • Process: Scaling to remove buildup + root planing to smooth surfaces and promote healing
  • Timeframe: Typically completed in one or two visits
  • Recovery: Mild tenderness for a few days; results include healthier gums and fresher breath
  • Follow-Up: Maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months may be recommended

The First Step to Healthier Gums

What is Scaling & Root Planing?

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure that effectively removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. This treatment targets the roots and surrounding gum tissue to prevent gum disease.

By thoroughly cleaning these areas, deep cleaning helps maintain healthy gums and teeth, reducing inflammation and promoting overall oral health. It's an important step for those experiencing signs of gum disease or seeking to maintain optimal dental hygiene.

Scaling

Clears away accumulated plaque and tartar from below the gumline to reduce inflammation and remove harmful bacteria.

Root Planing 

Smooths the root surfaces to aid in gum reattachment and healing, reducing the likelihood of future infections.

Smiling woman with long, flowing hair.

Oral Health Affects Your Overall Health

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection affecting gums and bone. It often starts with subtle signs like redness or swelling that are easy to overlook. Spotting these early symptoms is essential for preventing more serious complications and maintaining your oral health.

If you notice signs of gum disease in Cherry Creek, scheduling a deep cleaning early is one of the best steps you can take to restore gum health and prevent further damage.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis

Bleeding gums, bad breath, and mild swelling often mark the earliest stage. At this point, gum disease is still reversible with professional cleanings and consistent home care.

Periodontitis

As the disease progresses, gums may begin to recede, bad breath may persist, and pockets can form between the teeth and gums. A deep cleaning is crucial at this stage to remove bacteria and protect against bone loss.

Advanced Periodontitis

In the most severe stage, the bone supporting your teeth begins to break down. Teeth may become loose or fall out, and surgical treatment may be necessary.

Compassionate Care

What is the deep cleaning procedure like?

We make every effort to keep your deep cleaning comfortable and stress-free.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Numbing for Comfort – A local anesthetic or numbing gel may be used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
  • Scaling Below the Gumline – Plaque and tartar are carefully removed from beneath the gums and around the roots of your teeth.
  • Smoothing the Roots – The root surfaces are polished to encourage gum healing and make it harder for bacteria to return.
  • Antibacterial Support – In some cases, an antimicrobial rinse or medication is applied to reduce bacteria and support recovery.

Depending on the stage of gum disease, treatment may take one or two visits. Most patients report only mild sensitivity afterward, and the long-term benefits for gum and bone health make it well worth it.

Dental illustration of tooth decay treatment process.

Protecting Your Health

What oral health issues can a deep cleaning address?

If your gums bleed when brushing, appear swollen or red, or if you experience persistent bad breath, gum recession, sensitivity around the gumline, or loose teeth, scaling and root planing might be beneficial. These symptoms suggest a deeper cleaning could help maintain your oral health and ward off future issues. Discuss with your dentist to explore suitable treatment options tailored for you.

With professional dental care, you can maintain strong teeth and a confident smile. Addressing your oral health today helps prevent future complications, ensuring your smile remains bright and beautiful. Remember, good oral hygiene is crucial for your overall well-being!

A Long-Lasting Healthy Smile

Deep Cleaning Recovery & Aftercare

After a deep cleaning, it’s normal for your gums to feel tender or sensitive for a few days. This usually goes away quickly. To support healing:

  • Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently to avoid irritation
  • Floss daily to keep bacteria from returning
  • Rinse with warm salt water or a prescribed mouthwash if recommended
  • Stay away from hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until your gums feel better
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers if you experience discomfort
  • Following these steps will help your gums heal properly and keep your mouth healthy.

Regular dental check-ups are key to maintaining a healthy smile and strong gums. These visits not only help detect potential issues early but also keep your teeth clean and your oral health on track. By taking a proactive approach, you invest in lasting benefits like preventing decay, avoiding gum disease, and enjoying fresh breath. Keep smiling confidently with routine care!

Patient smiling during dental examination with gloves.

A Healthier Future

Preventing Gum Disease After a Deep Cleaning

Maintaining gum health after a deep cleaning is crucial. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria. Regular dental check-ups, possibly every 3-4 months, are essential. Avoid smoking or tobacco products to lower the risk of gum problems. Consistent care helps prevent the recurrence of gum disease, ensuring a healthier smile for the long term.

To maintain healthy gums, brush gently twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria. Regular dental check-ups are essential for professional cleanings and early detection of potential issues.

Deep Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, provides thorough care beyond standard cleanings by targeting bacteria beneath the gumline. While routine cleanings remove plaque from teeth surfaces, deep cleaning tackles infections that can lead to gum disease. Symptoms like bleeding gums or gum recession may indicate the need for this more intensive treatment.

Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth are warning signs of potential gum disease. These symptoms often indicate the need for a deep cleaning. Dentists assess gum health by measuring gum pocket depth; pockets over 4mm typically require intervention to prevent further issues. Regular dental check-ups can catch these signs early, promoting healthier smiles and preventing complications.

A deep cleaning usually isn't painful, even though it involves cleaning below the gumline. Dentists often use local anesthesia or a numbing gel to ensure comfort during the procedure. Afterward, some mild soreness or sensitivity in your gums is normal, but this typically subsides within a few days.

This crucial dental treatment often needs two visits, each targeting one side of the mouth. Sessions typically last 45 minutes to an hour, depending on gum disease severity. In less severe cases, it might be completed in a single visit.

After a deep cleaning, your gums may feel tender, so sticking to soft foods is wise. Try soothing options like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or smoothies. Cooked vegetables and tender proteins are also gentle on your gums. Avoiding hard or spicy foods at first can help reduce irritation as you recover.

Deep cleanings play a vital role in gum health by removing bacteria and infection, allowing gums to reattach to teeth more effectively. At Cherry Creek clinics, maintaining consistent oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments can lead to reduced inflammation and healthier gums over time.