Deep teeth cleaning (scaling and root planing) is one of the most effective treatment methods for gum problems that threaten your periodontal health. In this procedure, the dentist reaches below the gum line with special instruments and mechanically removes not only tartar but also bacterial plaque firmly attached to the root surface.
They also smooth the root surface to prevent bacterial buildup. While results can be achieved in a single session in early gingivitis cases, it forms the basis of the treatment plan in advanced infections.
In our article, we will share how deep cleaning is performed, how it protects your periodontal tissues and its contributions to your long-term oral health from a clinical perspective.
What is Deep Cleaning Teeth?
Deep teeth cleaning is a comprehensive, non-surgical treatment to treat and prevent the progression of gum disease. In dentistry, this procedure is also called scaling and root planing (SRP) or root surface debridement (RSD).
This method, which is generally preferred in inflammatory gum diseases such as periodontitis, is not limited to supragingival cleaning; it provides a deep cleaning by reaching into the gum pockets.
Thus, tartar, inflammatory tissues, and bacterial accumulation are removed, and gum health is aimed to be regained.
Deep Teeth Cleaning Procedure
Deep tooth cleaning (scaling and root planing), which forms the basis of periodontal treatment, aims to remove calculus, bacterial endotoxins, and microbial biofilm from both supragingival and subgingival areas.
Manual curettes, ultrasonic instruments, or bactericidal lasers are used in this procedure. Among these, ultrasonic devices provide fast and effective cleaning, whereas lasers stand out with their detoxification and tissue compatibility advantages.
On the other hand, although conventional polishing after SRP reduces surface roughness, it remains limited in subgingival areas; this disadvantage is overcome with subgingival air polishing technology.
Moreover, more effective and permanent results are obtained with combined techniques in challenging anatomical regions such as furcation and concavity.
What Are the Steps of a Scaling and Root Planing?
The deep teeth cleaning process usually consists of four basic steps: preparation, scaling, root planing and final check-ups/maintenance. During this comprehensive treatment process, your dentist will perform the following during the session:
Pre-Procedure Preparation:
Initially the procedure begins with an intraoral examination, during which periodontal pocket depths are measured using a probe, and radiographic images are taken if necessary. Next, instruments such as curettes and ultrasonic tips are sterilized and prepared for use.
Following this, local anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort, and the treatment position is properly adjusted. Finally, the high-powered suction system is activated, allowing the water spray to function effectively throughout the procedure.
Subgingival Plaque Removal:
The clinician first positions the ultrasonic Cavitron tip at approximately a 15° angle to the tooth surface. At this angle, low-pressure vibrations are used to loosen gross plaque deposits, which are then removed via suction.
Next, a hand instrument is adapted to the area, and a minimum of ten push‑pull strokes are applied to each site to thoroughly remove the subgingival biofilm.
Root Surface Smoothing:
At this stage, the physician holds the Gracey curette close to the root surface and gently scrapes off the bacterial endotoxin layer. He then guides the instrument to match the tooth root’s natural curve and completely removes the endotoxin.
If necessary, he checks for roughness with the probe and makes precise corrections until the surface is shiny and smooth.
Recovery and Follow-Up:
When the treatment is completed, the physician activates the aspirator and cleans the work area. At this time, the patient is advised to avoid hot and hard foods.
Subsequently at the follow-up visit one week later, the physician re-measures the pocket depths.
Finally, preventive care sessions are scheduled at three and six-month intervals to ensure the permanence of the treatment results.
Types of Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Your dentist will perform an SRP procedure to remove plaque and tartar that have advanced below the gum line. This process utilizes manual and ultrasonic instruments, as well as laser technology.
Below, you will find detailed information about the main features of these treatment methods and the way they are applied.
Scaling
Scaling is the basic periodontal procedure that aims to remove hard and mineralized deposits attached to the tooth surface. The word originates from the verb “to scale” and means to scrape away hard formations adhering to a surface.
This is usually accomplished with two types of movements:
Splitting: splitting or breaking the calculus from the surface
Prying: Lifting away with lever-like forces
It is usually done with the help of ultrasonic devices or hand instruments (curettes). The aim is to promote gum health by removing calculus and plaque deposits adhering to the surface.
Root Planing
Root planing, or root surface smoothing, involves cleaning the subgingival cement surface of bacteria, toxins, and necrotic cement residues.
This procedure involves scraping, shaving, and smoothing the surface to make it smoother. Thus, the root surface is made suitable for reattachment and healing.
Laser Deep Cleaning
The limitations of conventional methods have highlighted the use of Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers in periodontal treatment. These lasers effectively remove subgingival calculus and pathogens while causing no damage to root or implant surfaces and preventing thermal injury.
Moreover, by avoiding the formation of a smear layer, they facilitate fibroblast attachment and support tissue healing. In addition, there is less gum recession, bleeding and plaque formation compared to conventional SRP.
Scaling and Root Planing After Care
Proper after‑care following a deep teeth cleaning centers on five pillars: gentle hygiene, targeted rinses, sensitivity control, avoid alcohol, and diet.
- For the first 24 hours, brush with a soft‑bristled brush and floss carefully to disrupt plaque without injuring the healing sulcus .
- Twice‑daily 0.12 % chlorhexidine or warm salt‑water rinses curb biofilm and accelerate early soft‑tissue closure.
- Should dentin hypersensitivity arise, evidence supports desensitizing toothpaste or bonding‑agent varnishes to seal tubules and cut post‑treatment.
- Refraining from smoking and alcohol consumption for at least 48–72 hours post-treatment is advised, as these can impede healing and increase infection risk.
- In the first two days of wound healing, it is important to avoid spicy, hard, acidic, very hot or cold foods to protect the new tissue and prevent swelling. These measures help to preserve the delicate granulation tissue (healing tissue) and reduce the risk of complications.
Adhering to these measures for one week promotes stable attachment gains and reduces inflammation.
Can You Eat After a Deep Cleaning?
Local anesthesia is used for deep cleaning blunts protective reflexes. Clinicians therefore recommend waiting at least two hours before eating to avoid accidental bites or burns.
During the first 24 hours after the anesthesia wears off, cold, soft foods such as yogurt or scrambled eggs should be preferred because hard foods can traumatize the newly debrided gingival surface and delay the epithelial repair.
You can also include foods rich in vitamins A, C and omega–3 fatty acids in your diet for fast healing of wounds. Hot, spicy or acidic foods should be postponed for 48 hours, and a normal diet should be resumed as sensitivity decreases.
Pain and Sensitivity After Scaling and Root Planing
Approximately 54-55% of patients may develop transient root dentin sensitivity subgingival scaling and root planing. This sensitivity is usually characterized by an increased response to hot, cold, chemical, or mechanical stimuli and is most common in the first 1-3 weeks.
This is associated with partial removal of cementum and exposure of dentinal tubules during debridement of root surfaces. However, these symptoms are usually expected to resolve spontaneously within a few weeks.
Does Deep Cleaning Teeth Hurt?
Pain perception during deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on factors such as individual pain threshold and the severity of periodontal disease. In most cases, however, local anesthesia is administered during the procedure, so patients do not feel any discomfort.
How Often Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
Multiple cohort studies, systematic reviews, and professional guidelines converge on 3‑ to 4‑month recall visits as the default starting point.
Shorter intervals ( 3 months) are linked to significantly lower risk of disease recurrence, tooth loss, and attachment loss, while longer gaps (> 6 months) allow bacterial repopulation and pocket‑depth rebound.
However, true “one‑size‑fits‑all” timing does not exist; risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, heavy biofilm, or residual pockets call for tighter schedules, whereas low‑risk, well‑controlled cases may extend to 6 months once stability is proven.
Your periodontist should reassess pocket depths, bleeding on probing, plaque, and systemic health at every maintenance visit and adjust the interval accordingly.
Why Is Scaling And Root Planing Necessary?
Deep dental scaling is the only proven non‑surgical method for removing the hardened bacterial layer triggering periodontitis and allowing the gums to reattach firmly to the teeth.
Without this treatment, periodontal pockets remain chronically infected, bacteria recolonize within weeks, and the inflammatory process that destroys connective tissue continues unchecked.
In addition, if neglected, the infection will progress and eventually require surgery or tooth extraction.
How Long Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
In clinical practice, dentists and dental hygienists tend to approach the procedure with extra care and attention to detail, typically allocating around 1 hour for each quadrant.
Therefore, cleaning the entire dental arch can take between 1 and 4 hours, depending on the extent of treatment needed.
The procedure time can vary depending on the patient’s periodontal condition, the clinician’s preferred approach and the clinic’s scheduling.
Therefore, in some cases, the entire procedure may be completed in a single session, while in others the treatment may be spread over 2 to 4 sessions.
How Long Scaling and Root Planing Last?
Even after thorough SRP treatment, residual biofilm and calculus may remain on the root surfaces, which can lead to re-infection.
Clinical studies show that these harmful bacteria can repopulate 4-8 weeks after treatment and without regular check-ups, the numbers increase steadily for up to 3 months.
Usually, 3-4 monthly periodontal maintenance visits are recommended to prevent disease recurrence, gingival recession, and tooth loss.
However, high-risk patients may require visits every 2 months to maintain clinical gains, while stable and low-risk cases may require less frequent visits (6-12 months).
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Deep Teeth Cleaning Cost
The price of deep teeth cleaning varies depending on the area the person needs. Patients usually need treatment for the front teeth or the entire mouth. Therefore, this situation directly affects the price of the treatment.
You can see the general price ranges of dental deep cleaning treatment by examining the prices in the tables.
How Much Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Price?
| Countries | Deep Teeth Cleaning Price Per Quadrant |
|---|---|
| UK | £300-£450 |
| USA | $200-$500 |
| Germany | €250-€450 |
| Turkey | 150$-250$ |
Dental Deep Cleaning Price For Full Mouth
| Countries | Deep Teeth Cleaning Price For Full Mouth |
|---|---|
| UK | £1000-£1800 |
| USA | $800-$2000 |
| Germany | €750-€1800 |
| Turkey | 400$-800$ |
Deep Teeth Cleaning Cost Without Insurance
Dental deep cleaning or scaling and root planing usually has a high average price without insurance. So without insurance, the financial burden falls entirely on the patient.
Here are the price ranges of possible costs:
- Deep Teeth Clinic Cost Without Insurance Per Quadrant: $200–$500
- Deep Teeth Cleaning Cost Without Insurance For Full Mouth: $800–$2000
Factors Influencing the Cost of Deep Teeth Cleaning
Several factors can influence the cost of deep teeth cleaning, making it essential to understand them to plan your budget accordingly.
Level of Your Gums Disease
One of the primary factors is the severity of your gum disease. If the condition is advanced, it may require more extensive treatment, including multiple sessions, which can increase the overall cost.
The extent of scaling and root planing required will also affect the price, as more time and effort is required to thoroughly clean the affected areas.
Location of The Treatment
Geographical location is another important factor that affects the cost of deep dental cleaning. Treatments in cities with higher quality of life or in different countries may differ in price.
Expertise of The Periodontist
The expertise and experience of the periodontist is critical to the success of the treatment. Therefore, the dental deep cleaning price may be higher for a specialist periodontist.
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Advantages and Disadvantages of Deep Cleaning Teeth
Deep teeth cleaning, which is used in the treatment of gum diseases such as periodontitis, not only stops the progression of the disease, but also offers several advantages that promote oral health.
However, as with any medical intervention, certain disadvantages should not be overlooked.
Here are the benefits and potential risks of deep teeth cleaning in more detail;
Advantages of Deep Teeth Cleaning
- Plaque accumulated in 4 mm and above periodontal pockets is completely removed by ultrasonic vibration and manual curettage.
- After deep cleaning, the probing depth of periodontal pockets decreases and the risk of recolonization decreases.
- Bacterial endotoxins that have penetrated the cement surface are also removed, promoting tissue healing.
- Fine-tipped ultrasonic periodontal inserts and special curettes provide great advantages in accessing furcation, concavity, and molar distal areas.
- Deep tooth cleaning facilitates fibroblast adhesion as it leaves no smear layer.
Disadvantages of Deep Teeth Cleaning?
- A single session may not be sufficient for particularly deep pockets; lengthy procedures of 60–90 minutes can be necessary.
- The sound produced by ultrasonic vibration and high frequency can be uncomfortable for some patients, and transient sensitivity may occur after the procedure.
- In manual curettage, the dentist’s experience plays a critical role in success; deep SRP requires a skillful combination of both ultrasonic and manual techniques.
- Because of the risk of post‑operative infection, patients with pacemakers or an uncontrolled risk of bacterial endocarditis need special precautions or antibiotic treatment.
Deep Teeth Cleaning vs. Regular Teeth Cleaning
Deep dental cleaning and routine dental cleaning both aim to address plaque and tartar buildup; however, they differ significantly in terms of application depth, techniques used, and treatment objectives.
In light of these differences, the core characteristics of these methods and the key differences between them will be examined in detail under the following headings.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Deep teeth cleaning is a procedure that aims to remove subgingival plaque and tartar accumulated in periodontal pockets with a depth of 4 mm or more.
In the first stage, ultrasonic tips operating at a frequency of 25,000–45,000 cycles/s break the hard tartar under the gum, followed by smoothing the root surface with manual curettes.
Moreover, laser deep cleaning has also become more common, offering advantages such as easier access to difficult areas, and effective bacterial elimination.
This procedure controls existing periodontal lesions, stabilizes gingival pockets, and maintains the health of the gum tissue in the long term.
Who Requires Scaling and Root Planing?
Deep teeth cleaning is a treatment method recommended for patients who show symptoms such as gum recession, bone loss, bleeding or the formation of pockets between teeth, especially in cases where gingivitis progresses or periodontitis develops.
As a result, deep cleaning of the teeth and gum pockets is of great importance to stop the progression of the disease.
Regular Teeth Cleaning
Routine teeth cleaning is a preventive procedure that focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gum line. Typically it is performed every 6 months in individuals with healthy gums.
Unlike deep cleaning, it does not interfere with periodontal pockets or root surfaces. With simple scalers and polishing tools, stains and superficial deposits on the tooth surface are removed, reducing the risk of caries and gingivitis.
Who Requires Regular Teeth Cleaning?
Regular scaling are particularly essential for individuals at risk of gum disease. This group encompasses a wide range of people, from those struggling with oral hygiene to smokers, diabetics, or individuals with cardiovascular diseases.
In these cases, plaque and tartar buildup can occur more rapidly, which may lead to gum inflammation and, over time, even bone loss.
Difference Between Teeth Dental Cleaning and Regular Teeth Cleaning?
| Feature | Routine Dental Cleaning | Dental Deep Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | 6-month routine maintenance; removes supragingival plaque and tartar, controls mild inflammation | Performed when periodontal pocket depth ≥ 4 mm → removes subgingival plaque and tartar, halts inflammation, stabilizes pockets |
| Instruments Used | - Ultrasonic tips - Hand instruments (curette, scaler) | 1. Ultrasonic Scaling: Coarse cleaning at 25,000–45,000 cycles/s 2. Manual Curettage: Removes smear layer from root surface 3. Optional Laser Assistance |
| Average Duration | 30–45 minutes | 60–90 minutes (varies by case and pocket depth) |
| Comfort&Follow-Up | Mild discomfort due to water spray and vibration; 6-month follow-ups are sufficient | Possible post-treatment sensitivity; short-interval follow-ups every 3–6 months and maintenance may be recommended |
When Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?
Deep dental cleaning (scaling and root planing) is performed on patients diagnosed with periodontitis or those at risk of developing periodontal disease, and is especially necessary in the following cases:
- When periodontal pocket depth exceeds 4 mm,
- In the presence of alveolar bone resorption (bone loss) or gum recession,
- If there are signs of infection such as chronic gum bleeding, swelling, or inflammation,
- When subgingival calculus accumulation or bacterial penetration begins to damage the root surface,
- If rough root surfaces facilitate plaque accumulation and contribute to the loss of periodontal attachment.
Additionally, in cases requiring non-surgical treatment, deep cleaning is considered a standard protocol to create a biocompatible root surface and halt the progression of infection.
Deep Cleaning Teeth Before and After
Deep teeth cleaning has a robust evidence base showing that removing bacteria and calculus from root surfaces measurably improves periodontal health.
Within weeks, probing depths in moderate‑to‑deep (≥ 4 mm) pockets fall by roughly 1–2 mm, clinical attachment levels rise, and the bacterial profile shifts toward a health‑associated flora.
These biologic changes underpin the before‑and‑after transformation clinicians and patients observe: swollen, infection-filled pockets shrink, become less oxygen-deprived, and able to have stable tissue reattachment.
What Happens At a Deep Dental Cleaning?
- Special instruments clean below the gumline, eliminating bacterial colonies that regular brushing can’t reach.
- Gum pockets become shallower, especially in areas that were initially deeper, creating a more favorable environment for tissues to re-attach.
- The gums reattach more securely to the teeth, indicating real healing—not just reduced swelling.
- Ultrasonic scalers strip away toxic bacterial residues, creating a clean surface for tissue healing.
Gaps in Teeth After Deep Cleaning
Deep teeth cleaning removes subgingival calculus and inflamed tissue, allowing the gingiva to shrink back to its normal contour.
As oedema resolves, interdental papillae lose the artificial “bulk” once provided by deposits, revealing transient gaps between teeth.
Histologic studies confirm that attachment levels stabilize or even gain within four weeks, yet lost bone support is not regenerated, so papillary height may remain reduced.
FAQ'S
You can find information about deep teeth cleaning informations by checking the frequently asked questions.
In the case of gum disease (periodontitis), scaling and root planing is necessary to stop the progression of the disease and treat it. In addition, regular scaling can reduce the severity of gingivitis and may be effective in preventing the disease from progressing to periodontitis.
The price of deep teeth cleaning per quadrant varies between $200-$500 depending on the severity of gum disease, the doctor’s expertise and location.
After a dental deep cleaning, you can brush your teeth, but it is important to do so with gentle movements. Dentists recommend waiting until the numbness is completely gone to reduce the risk of irritation, especially for gums that become sensitive immediately after the procedure.
Avoid very hot/cold drinks and hard/crunchy foods such as nuts and chips for the first 48 hours after dental deep cleaning. Instead, you can choose foods that will not irritate sensitive gums, such as yogurt, pureed soup, custard or soft vegetable purees.
Since scaling teeth is performed under local anesthesia, there is usually no pain during the procedure. However, mild gum sensitivity or discomfort may occur, particularly within the first 48 hours after treatment.
Clinical studies have documented that approximately 70% of patients experience this temporary sensitivity, but this condition disappears spontaneously within 3-5 days, although it varies from person to person.
After a dental deep cleaning, mild gum sensitivity or temporary tooth sensitivity is common. You may also experience mild swelling of your gums (edema) and minimal bleeding.
These symptoms are a natural part of the healing process of the tissues and usually resolve on their own in a short time. The sensitivity complaint, on the other hand, tends to decrease significantly, usually within 7-10 days.
After dental deep cleaning, it is usual to feel a slight wobbling sensation in the cleaned teeth. This is due to the removal of the hardened calculus (tartar) accumulated under the gums, creating a temporary gap between the tooth and the surrounding tissues.
However, within 2-3 weeks, your gums heal and tissue repair takes place. During this process, the connective tissues around the tooth root tighten and the gum adapts to the surface again. Thus, the tooth regains its former stability.
Deep scaling is a procedure that should only be performed by dentists in a clinical setting when periodontal treatment is required. Attempting to remove tartar yourself at home can lead to permanent scratches on tooth enamel, gum trauma and an increased risk of infection.
If deep teeth scaling is planned, you can take care of oral hygiene at home to control gingivitis before treatment. Brushing your teeth twice a day and using antiseptic mouthwash to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth can help with this process.
