Teeth.com · Treatment explained · 2 min 42 sec
Do I Really Need a Deep Cleaning?
Understand gum measurements, bleeding, supporting tissues and how scaling and root planing differs from a routine cleaning.
English captions available in the player. AI-assisted presenter and illustrations; general education.
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My dentist says I need a deep cleaning.
My teeth feel fine.
Why isn't a regular cleaning enough?
A regular cleaning helps keep gums healthy. Deep cleaning treats gum disease below the gum line.
Healthy gums fit closely around teeth. Beneath them, tiny fibers connect the roots to surrounding bone.
Plaque is a soft film of bacteria. It can harden into tartar, which brushing cannot remove.
Plaque can cause red, swollen gums that bleed easily. This is gingivitis. It usually improves with good care.
Bleeding alone doesn't mean bone loss. Periodontitis damages the tissue and bone supporting teeth.
A deeper pocket can form beside the root. The pocket is a space. The inflamed gum forms its outer wall.
Without treatment, further support can be lost. Teeth may loosen even when there is little pain.
With recession, the gum line sits lower on the root, leaving some root exposed.
Here, three millimeters of root are exposed. The pocket is another three millimeters deep.
Together, that's six millimeters of lost attachment. So a shallow pocket reading can hide earlier loss of support.
We also measure from where the enamel ends. Your dentist combines measurements with bleeding, recession, x-rays, and your health history.
A number alone does not determine treatment. This pocket measures about five millimeters from the gum edge to the probe tip.
Healthy readings are usually one to three. Bleeding shows inflammation. Attachment loss means less tooth support.
With tartar below the gum, these findings together call for deep cleaning.
The instrument removes plaque and tartar below the gum line without cutting or folding back the tissue.
As inflammation settles over weeks, a new tissue seal can form against the cleaned root.
We recheck after healing, about three millimeters without bleeding. This example can continue with maintenance.
Persistent, deep pockets may need further treatment, sometimes surgery. Brush twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
Angle soft bristles toward the gum line and use gentle strokes.
Clean between teeth daily. Use an interdental brush that fits comfortably, moving it gently in and out.
Keep your gum maintenance visits. Your dental team removes new buildup and compares your gum measurements over time.
Ask. Which areas need treatment and when should we check again?
Teeth.com. Before you decide.