A deep clean is a specific procedure carried out to treat gum disease. It is a treatment which is required to remove bacteria and tartar which has formed underneath the gum tissue, resulting in inflammation, bleeding and disease.

Why is it required?

A deep clean is required as an aim to prevent gum disease from progressing further, which will lead to destruction of the underlying gum structure that firmly hold the teeth in place. People who have gum disease present with pockets around the gums. This is when the gum detaches away from the tooth, caused by plaque bacteria penetrating underneath. Pockets exceeding 4mm in depth make it very difficult to remove plaque when brushing and flossing. These unreachable areas will cause inflammation of the gums; therefore a deep clean carried out by the hygienist allows access to these areas to effectively remove plaque.

The main aims of a deep clean are to:

• Prevent the disease from progressing further
• Reduce bacterial load underneath the gums
• Reduce bleeding and inflammation of the gums
• Prevent tooth loss

Are there alternative treatments?

1. No Treatment – If you choose to not have a deep clean as advised by your dentist and/or hygienist, your gum disease may get worse, with the risk of pain, infection and ultimately tooth loss.
2. Extractions – If the gum disease is already at an advanced stage, removal of worst affected teeth may be the best option. Your dentist may advice you best on replacement of these teeth with a denture/bridge or implants.

How can I prepare for a deep clean?

• Firstly take any medication you have normally.
• If you are taking warfarin, please arrange for an INR reading to be recorded 48 hours prior to your deep clean appointment.
• Please inform the practice of any changes to your medication or health prior to your appointments.
• We recommend that you stop smoking as not only does it make your mouth healthier but will increase the chance of your deep clean being successful.
• We recommend that you have a light meal before your appointments.

Will it hurt whilst the deep clean is being carried out?

For some people it can be uncomfortable whilst having a deep clean. To minimise discomfort, we recommend carrying out the procedure under local anaesthetic.

What to expect after treatment?

• Discomfort – it can be uncomfortable after a deep clean and using ibuprofen and /or paracetamol as you need, keeping to the prescribed dose, is a good idea. Using luke warm water and salt mouth rinses over the next few days also helps. Furthermore, maintaining a good standard of cleaning via tooth brushing and flossing is imperative, which will minimise any discomfort.
• Sensitivity – it is normal to experience sensitivity after a deep clean, using ibuprofen and desensitising tooth paste will help while it settles.
• Swelling – it is not unusual and if the swelling is bad enough then using a cold pack, alternating 20 mins on and 20 mins off may help. Use this for the first 24 hours only.
• Bleeding- it is normal to experience gum bleeding for up to 48 hours after a deep clean.
• Eating – for the first 48 hours it is advised that you try to eat softer foods, avoiding hard foods, such as nuts/muesli etc.

What happens after the deep clean?

As your gums get healthier you should see a decrease in redness, swelling, bleeding or movement of your teeth. Slight gum recession is common. Teeth may appear longer with spaces more obvious between them. This is a normal response to a deep clean and shows that your inflammation is reducing and gums are improving.

Review Appointment.

It is advised you visit your dentist and/or hygienist for a review appointment 3 months after having the deep clean procedure. This allows them to assess the gum health to see if there has been any resolution in bleeding and pocket depths around the gums. Furthermore, it allows them to devise a treatment plan most effective for your future dental needs.

It is very important to remember that the long term success of any gum treatment is dependent on the quality of your care at home, and following the advice of our highly trained therapist/hygienist in keeping everything clean will prolong the life of your teeth.