TL; DR
- A gum cleaning at the dentist gets rid of plaque, tartar, and bacteria around the gums.
- It is essential for preventing gum disease, reducing inflammation, and maintaining healthy teeth and jawbone.
- The procedure includes examination, scaling, root planing (if needed), antibacterial rinse, and polishing.
- Some bleeding or discomfort is common, but it typically fades within a couple of days.
- Aftercare includes gentle brushing, flossing, saltwater rinses, avoiding smoking/alcohol, and regular dental visits.
- Most people need gum cleaning every 6 months; high-risk patients may need it every 3–4 months.
- At-home care supports gum health, but only a dentist can remove hardened tartar effectively.
Gum Cleaning at the Dentist: A Quick Guide
Healthy gums are the key to good oral health. This is why gum cleaning at the dentist is one of the most commonly recommend procedures, even if you don’t see visible deposits or stains on your teeth. Gum cleaning is a safe, painless, and effective treatment that removes tartar, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
During the procedure, specialized dental instruments are use to remove buildup, smoothen root surfaces, and prevent infection. The result? You’ll have a healthier smile, fresher breath, and long-term protection against gum disease. In this blog, we’ll explore why gum cleaning is important, what the procedure involves, and how to care for your gums afterward.
What is Gum Cleaning and Why is It Important?
Gum cleaning at the dentist is a professional procedure where plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) are carefully remove from the teeth and along the roots. In dentistry, this process is refer to as scaling and root planing.
Failure to remove plaque and tartar buildup can cause a chain reaction that harms not just your oral health but also your general health. Studies suggest that bacteria from gum infections are link to serious conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even respiratory problems.
Gum cleaning is important to:
- Maintain oral health by preventing bacterial buildup.
- Reduce inflammation and bleeding caused by gum infections.
- Eliminate persistent bad breath.
- Protect teeth and jawbones from damage.
- Lower the risk of systemic diseases and support overall health.
Symptoms That Indicate You Need Gum Cleaning
Your mouth often shows early warning signs of gum disease. Our experts at Dental On First believe you may need professional gum cleaning if you notice:
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis).
- Brown or yellow stains on teeth.
- Gum pain or discomfort while chewing.
- A metallic taste in the mouth or pus from the gums.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
- White, chalky deposits at the gumline or behind teeth.
How Is Professional Gum Cleaning with the Dentist Performed?
Cleaning gums at the dentist is usually a single-visit procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. If there is extensive buildup, two sessions may be required. Here’s the process:
1. Initial Examination
The dentist begins with an oral exam and may take X-rays to check bone levels, especially if periodontitis is suspected. The examination also includes measurement of gum pocket depths, bleeding points, and gum recession.
2. Scaling
A plaque-disclosing solution may be applied before treatment to highlight buildup. An ultrasonic scaler is used to break down and get rid of plaque and tartar deposits. Hand scalers may also be used to reach tighter areas.
3. Root Planing (If Needed)
In patients with gum pockets or advanced periodontal disease, root planing is performed to smooth out the surface of the tooth roots and remove deposits. This favors gum reattachment to the root and prevents bacterial accumulation.
4. Irrigation and Antimicrobial Rinse
The dentist may flush gum pockets with chlorhexidine, iodine, or other antimicrobial agents. In severe cases, local antibiotic medication may also be applied.
5. Polishing
Finally, the teeth are polished using a special paste to remove stains and smoothen surfaces, making it harder for plaque to stick.
Duration: The entire process normally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Aftercare Following a Gum Cleaning
It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity or slight bleeding after gum cleaning with a dentist. The symptoms tend to disappear in a few days. To ensure proper healing and lasting results, follow this step-by-step guide recommended by our experts at Dental On First:
Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Floss regularly or use a water flosser for tight contacts.
- Use a chlorhexidine mouthwash (if prescribed) for a few days post-treatment.
Sensitivity Management
- Use toothpaste containing potassium nitrate to reduce sensitivity.
- To heal and soothe irritation, rinse with warm water and salt.
Diet and Lifestyle
- Avoid sugary or carbonated drinks that promote bacterial growth.
- Stop smoking or chewing tobacco to reduce staining and gum disease risk.
Follow-Up
Schedule professional cleanings at least every 6 months, or more often if you have gum disease or risk factors such as diabetes or smoking.
Conclusion
Gum cleaning at the dentist is one of the best preventive measures for healthy gums and teeth. Even with excellent home care, tartar deposits in hidden areas can only be removed professionally. Ideally, you should schedule a cleaning twice a year to maintain optimal oral health.
Is Your Dental Cleaning Overdue? Schedule an Appointment with Dental On First!
At Dental On First, our experienced team can provide complete dental care for your entire family. As a trusted dentist in new prague, we offer a one-stop solution for all your needs: crowns, RCT, professional cleanings, kids’ dental care, and implants; we do it all. Book your appointment today! Call us at 952-758-3003 or visit us at 136 Main St. West, New Prague, MN 56071.
FAQs
How often should I get my gums professionally cleaned?
At least twice a year, or more frequently if you are prone to gum disease.
Can gum cleaning help reverse early gum disease?
Yes. Professional cleaning can reverse gingivitis if treated early. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can be managed but cannot be fully reversed.
Will I experience bleeding or discomfort during gum cleaning?
Some bleeding and mild discomfort are common, especially if the gums are inflamed. However, dentists may use numbing agents for comfort.
Can I clean my gums at home?
You can control plaque with daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing, but hardened tartar can only be removed by professional gum cleaning.
How long does a professional gum cleaning take?
A routine cleaning usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If there is heavy tartar buildup or gum disease, the session may last up to an hour or be split into two visits.
