Do I Need a Deep Cleaning? Here Are the 7 Most Common Signs

Many patients in Temple Terrace, New Tampa, and Wesley Chapel wonder whether their gum symptoms mean they need a regular cleaning or a deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing).

A deep cleaning is one of the most effective ways to stop gum disease early, protect your bone structure, and prevent tooth loss — but most people don’t know they need it until symptoms worsen.

Here are the top seven signs you may need a deep cleaning and when to schedule an evaluation at SolSmile Lounge.

1. Your Gums Bleed Easily

If your gums bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating, it’s often one of the first signs of gingivitis.

Bleeding gums almost always indicate inflammation — and if left untreated, it can progress to early gum disease.

2. You Notice Gum Swelling or Puffiness

Swollen, tender, or puffy gums mean your gums are reacting to plaque and bacteria trapped below the gumline.

If gums appear red instead of pink, it’s time for a periodontal evaluation.

3. You Have Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Chronic bad breath is often caused by bacteria growing deep under the gums.

A deep cleaning removes the bacteria that regular cleanings cannot reach.

4. Your Gums Are Pulling Away From Your Teeth

Receding gums can reveal the root surface of your teeth, making them more sensitive and vulnerable.

This is a major indicator of periodontitis, which requires deep cleaning and ongoing periodontal maintenance.

5. You Have Tooth Sensitivity to Cold or Hot

When gums pull back or become inflamed, tooth roots are exposed — leading to sensitivity.

A deep cleaning stops the inflammation and reduces nerve irritation.

6. You See Visible Tartar Buildup Along the Gumline

Hardened tartar (calculus) cannot be removed at home and traps bacteria underneath it.

If tartar is present under the gums, scaling and root planing becomes necessary.

7. Your Dentist Measures Deep Gum Pockets

During your exam, your dentist may call out numbers like 4mm, 5mm, or 6mm. These are gum pocket depths — and anything above 3mm means bacteria has collected below the gumline.

Pockets greater than 4mm typically require a deep cleaning.

Why Deep Cleanings Are So Important

Untreated gum disease can lead to:

• Gum recession
• Bone loss
• Loose teeth
• Chronic infections
• Tooth loss

The good news? When detected early, gum disease is highly treatable.

At SolSmile Lounge, our dentists use gentle techniques, advanced digital imaging, and personalized periodontal care to restore gum health and prevent disease progression.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Deep Cleaning?

You may benefit from a deep cleaning if you have:

• Moderate tartar buildup
• Bleeding or swollen gums
• 4mm–6mm pockets
• Persistent bad breath
• Early bone loss on X-rays

A periodontal evaluation is the best way to confirm whether you need this treatment.

Deep Cleaning vs Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Many patients aren’t sure whether they need a regular cleaning or a deep cleaning, and the two treatments serve very different purposes.

A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is the standard cleaning performed during routine dental visits. It removes plaque and tartar above the gumline, polishes the teeth, and helps maintain fresh breath and healthy gums. Regular cleanings are ideal for patients who do not have signs of gum disease and simply need maintenance every six months.

A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a therapeutic treatment used to address gum disease. It removes hardened tartar below the gumline, smooths the root surfaces, reduces inflammation, and helps the gums reattach to the teeth. Deep cleanings are recommended when gum pockets are deeper than normal or when there is bleeding, swelling, or infection around the gums.

Here’s the difference in simple terms:
– A regular cleaning maintains healthy gums.
– A deep cleaning treats active gum infection

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If you experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, persistent bad breath, tartar below the gumline, or gum recession, a deep cleaning may be necessary to prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your bone structure.

FAQ

1. Does a deep cleaning hurt?

Most patients feel minimal discomfort; we use gentle numbing to ensure comfort.

2. How long does a deep cleaning take?

Usually one or two visits depending on severity.

3. Do I need a deep cleaning every year?

Not always. Some patients transition to periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months.

4. Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis can be reversed. Periodontitis can be controlled, but not reversed — which is why early treatment is essential.