Periodontal Deep Clean: What It Is, Why You Need It & What to Expect

Many people believe bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum tenderness are minor issues — but these can be early signs of gum disease. When plaque and bacteria build up below the gum line, a regular dental clean is often not enough. That's where a periodontal deep clean becomes essential.

A periodontal deep clean is a targeted treatment designed to remove harmful bacteria from beneath the gums, helping stop gum disease from progressing. In this guide, we'll explain what a periodontal deep clean involves, how it differs from a standard clean, when it's recommended, and what you can expect during and after treatment — so you can protect both your gums and your overall oral health.

What Is a Periodontal Deep Clean?

A periodontal deep clean is a specialised dental procedure used to treat gum disease by cleaning below the gum line. This comprehensive treatment goes beyond a regular dental cleaning to address infection and inflammation in the gum pockets surrounding your teeth.

Scaling and Root Planing Explained

A periodontal deep clean consists of two main components:

• • Scaling removes plaque and tartar (calculus) from beneath the gums and around the roots of your teeth
• • Root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach properly and prevent future bacterial buildup
• • Together, these procedures reduce bacteria and inflammation, promoting healthier gums

How It Differs From a Regular Dental Clean

While both procedures maintain oral health, they serve different purposes:

• • Regular dental cleans focus on cleaning above the gum line and preventing gum disease
• • Deep cleans target infected gum pockets below the gum line
• • A deep clean is required when gum disease (periodontitis) is already present

When Do You Need a Periodontal Deep Clean?

A deep clean is recommended when signs of gum disease are detected during a dental examination. Your dentist will measure the depth of gum pockets around your teeth — pockets deeper than 4mm typically indicate the need for deep cleaning treatment.

Signs of Gum Disease

Common warning signs that you may need a periodontal deep clean include:

• • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• • Persistent bad breath that doesn't go away
• • Swollen, tender, or receding gums
• • Loose teeth or changes in your bite

Gum Pockets and Bone Loss

Deep gum pockets trap bacteria and food particles, creating an environment where infection thrives. If left untreated, the infection can progress beyond the gums and begin destroying the bone that supports your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Why Periodontal Deep Cleaning Is Important

Prevents Progression of Gum Disease

Early intervention with a periodontal deep clean can stop gingivitis (early gum disease) from progressing to periodontitis (advanced gum disease). By thoroughly cleaning below the gum line, the procedure protects the teeth-supporting structures — including bone, ligaments, and gum tissue — from further damage.

Protects Overall Health

Research has shown that gum disease is linked to serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory problems. The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. A periodontal deep clean reduces chronic inflammation and helps protect your overall health, not just your teeth.

What to Expect During a Periodontal Deep Clean

The Procedure Step-by-Step

• • Local anaesthetic is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure
• • Deep cleaning is typically performed in sections (quadrants) of your mouth
• • The procedure may require multiple appointments, depending on the extent of gum disease
• • Your dentist or hygienist will carefully clean beneath the gums and smooth the root surfaces

Is It Painful?

Thanks to modern anaesthesia, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. You'll feel some pressure and vibrations, but the area will be numb. Some mild soreness or sensitivity afterwards is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Recovery and Aftercare

What's Normal After Treatment

After your periodontal deep clean, you may experience:

• • Tender gums for a few days
• • Slight bleeding when brushing or flossing
• • Increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days

These symptoms are temporary and should subside within a week. If severe pain, swelling, or bleeding persists, contact your dentist immediately.

How to Care for Your Gums After a Deep Clean

Proper aftercare is essential for healing and preventing gum disease from returning:

• • Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily
• • Floss carefully once a day to remove plaque between teeth
• • Use an antibacterial mouth rinse as recommended by your dentist
• • Attend regular follow-up appointments for periodontal maintenance cleans (typically every 3-4 months)
• • Maintain excellent oral hygiene at home to prevent reinfection

People Also Ask — Periodontal Deep Clean FAQs

Is a periodontal deep clean necessary?

Yes, when gum disease is present, a periodontal deep clean is essential to prevent further damage to your gums and bone. Without treatment, gum disease can progress to tooth loss and affect your overall health.

How often do I need a periodontal deep clean?

Typically, you'll need a deep clean only once to treat existing gum disease. However, you'll require regular periodontal maintenance cleanings (usually every 3-4 months) to keep your gums healthy and prevent the disease from returning.

Can gum disease be reversed?

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. However, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) cannot be completely cured — it can only be managed and controlled to prevent further progression.

What happens if gum disease is left untreated?

Untreated gum disease can lead to serious consequences including tooth loss, bone damage, gum recession, and increased risk of systemic health problems such as heart disease and diabetes complications. Early treatment is crucial.