Do Deep Cleanings Hurt? Everything You Need to Know

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. For many patients, routine dental cleanings are enough to keep their teeth and gums in top shape. However, when gum disease or excessive plaque buildup occurs, a more thorough approach is required—enter deep cleanings. If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning, you might have questions about what to expect, whether it will be painful, and how it can benefit your oral health. In this blog post, we’ll address the most common concerns about deep cleanings, including why they’re necessary, how they’re performed, and what you can expect during and after the procedure.

What is a deep cleaning?

A deep dental cleaning, often called scaling and root planing, is a specialized procedure designed to treat gum disease. Unlike a regular cleaning that focuses on the surfaces of your teeth, a deep cleaning goes below the gumline to remove tartar and bacteria from the roots of the teeth. This process helps to reduce inflammation, prevent bone loss, and stop gum disease from progressing. By eliminating the plaque and tartar buildup in these hard-to-reach areas, deep cleaning promotes healthier gums and teeth, making it a crucial step for patients with gum disease.

Do deep cleanings hurt?

Since deep cleanings go beyond the typical cleaning experience, patients sometimes worry about discomfort. To ensure comfort, your hygienist will apply local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. During the procedure, you may feel pressure or vibrations from the dental tools but should not experience pain. Afterward, mild soreness or tenderness in the gums is normal as they heal. This post-treatment sensitivity generally lasts a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease any lingering discomfort. Following aftercare instructions, such as using a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoiding certain foods, also helps promote healing and comfort.

How much do deep cleanings cost?

The cost of a deep cleaning depends on the extent of the treatment needed. If only a few teeth or one area requires attention, it will likely cost less than a full-mouth deep cleaning. Most dentists bill based on whether one to three teeth or a whole quadrant needs cleaning. Depending on the clinic and location, costs can vary widely, but dental insurance often covers a portion of the expense. For a more accurate estimate, reach out to your dental provider to understand the cost of your specific needs and the coverage your insurance plan offers.

Are deep cleanings necessary?

Deep cleanings are essential for those diagnosed with gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When plaque and tartar build up below the gumline, it causes inflammation, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and potentially tooth loss. A regular cleaning alone cannot address these issues. Deep cleaning is the only method to thoroughly clean below the gumline, halt the progression of gum disease, and restore healthier gum and bone levels. If your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, it’s a proactive step to protect your long-term oral health and prevent more invasive treatments down the line.

How long do deep cleanings take?

The duration of a deep cleaning depends on the extent of the gum disease and the number of teeth involved. Often, a full-mouth deep cleaning is divided into two appointments, treating one-half of the mouth per visit. Each session typically takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing time for X-rays, anesthesia, and aftercare instructions. If only one area requires cleaning, it may be completed in a single visit.

Are deep cleanings covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover deep cleanings at a percentage, but coverage levels vary depending on your provider and plan. For many plans, deep cleanings are considered a preventive or necessary treatment to maintain oral health, with typical coverage of around 80%. Check with your insurance company for details on what percentage is covered and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

How many deep cleanings are needed?

The number of deep cleanings you need will depend on your oral health. For many patients, one deep cleaning, followed by regular cleanings and good oral hygiene, is enough to restore gum health. However, if you have ongoing periodontal issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent deep cleanings to keep the gums healthy and free from disease.

Looking for Honest, Friendly Dental Care?

If you’re experiencing signs of gum disease or want to improve your oral health, schedule an appointment with our experienced team at Redmond Signature Dentistry. Our compassionate and skilled professionals are here to help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards healthier gums and teeth.

 

Call Us: 425.598.0147

Address: 7530 164th Ave NE #A-130, Redmond, WA 98052