Gum disease is one of the most common dental issues affecting adults—and if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and serious health complications. One of the most effective treatments for gum disease is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
What gum disease is
How deep cleaning works
What to expect during and after the procedure
Why early intervention matters
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It typically starts as gingivitis, a mild form of gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. If not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth and bacteria start to break down the bone and connective tissue.
Signs of gum disease may include:
Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath
Swollen or tender gums
Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
Loose or shifting teeth
What Is Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning is a dental procedure used to treat gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. Unlike a routine dental cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of your teeth above the gum line, deep cleaning targets the roots and pockets around your teeth where bacteria thrive.
The procedure involves two key steps:
Scaling – Removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and under the gum line.
Root Planing – Smooths out rough spots on the roots to help gums reattach to the teeth and discourage future bacterial buildup.
When Is Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Your dentist or hygienist may recommend a deep cleaning if:
You have signs of moderate to advanced gum disease
Your periodontal pockets are deeper than 3–4 mm
You haven’t had a cleaning in a long time
You’re experiencing gum recession or bone loss
At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, we use gentle techniques to make the process as comfortable as possible. In many cases, we may use a local anaesthetic to numb the gums and ensure a pain-free experience.
What to Expect After Deep Cleaning
After your deep cleaning:
Your gums may feel tender or slightly sore for a few days.
You might notice some sensitivity to hot or cold.
We’ll recommend an antimicrobial rinse or fluoride gel if needed.
Most patients feel noticeably better after the inflammation subsides.
We’ll also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor healing and reassess your gum health.
Why Early Treatment Is Key
Ignoring gum disease can lead to:
Bone loss around teeth
Tooth mobility or loss
Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes complications
Ongoing inflammation that affects your general health
Deep cleaning is a vital first step in reversing early gum disease and stopping its progression.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums After Treatment
To keep your gums healthy:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush
Floss daily to clean between teeth
Visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended)
Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of gum disease
Consider more frequent professional cleanings if you’ve had gum issues before
Pain-Free Deep Cleaning in Sydney
If you’ve been told you have gum disease or are overdue for a dental check-up, don’t wait. At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, we take a gentle and holistic approach to treating gum disease and restoring oral health. Whether you need a routine scale and clean or a more thorough deep cleaning, we’re here to help—without the fear or discomfort.
📍 Pain-Free Dentist Sydney
570 New Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park NSW
📞 Call us on (02) 9558 8988 to book your appointment.
🌐 Visit our website https://painfreedentistsydney.com.au/