Description

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing or curettage, is an advanced dental procedure performed to treat gum disease by thoroughly cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause inflammation and infection. Deep Cleaning Procedure (Per Tooth/Full Mouth) Scaling: The dentist or hygienist uses ultrasonic instruments and hand tools (scalers) to remove plaque and hardened tartar from above and crucially below the gum line on the tooth surfaces and roots.​ Root Planing: The roots of teeth are smoothed (planed) to remove bacterial toxins and create a clean surface for gum reattachment, reducing pocket depths and inflammation.​ Curettage: Sometimes curettage is performed, which involves scraping the infected lining of the gum pockets to promote healing.​ Local Anesthesia: Often administered to numb the treated area for patient comfort during deep root cleaning.​ Multiple Visits: Cleaning may be done per quadrant (a quarter of the mouth) or per tooth basis, sometimes over two visits, depending on severity.​ Laser Deep Cleaning: An alternative or adjunct, laser therapy uses focused light to kill bacteria and remove infected tissue more gently and with reduced discomfort and bleeding.​ Post-Care and Benefits Deep cleaning significantly improves gum health by reducing inflammation, halting progression of periodontal disease, and promoting tissue reattachment.​ It generally requires follow-up visits for assessment and maintenance, including at-home good oral hygiene practices and possibly more frequent professional cleanings.​ Laser deep cleaning often results in quicker recovery, less pain, and minimal bleeding compared to conventional methods.​ In summary, deep cleaning with curettage per tooth or full mouth is a critical periodontal treatment to combat advanced gum disease, involving scaling, root planing, and sometimes laser therapy to restore oral health