Scaling and root planing, often called deep cleaning, is one of the most important treatments for gum disease. It removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal. Knowing what to expect afterwards helps you recover comfortably and get the best long-term result.
When gum disease progresses, pockets form between the gums and teeth. These pockets collect bacteria and tartar that a toothbrush cannot reach. Scaling removes the deposits, and root planing smooths the root surfaces so bacteria have fewer places to attach. This allows inflammation to settle and gums to tighten around the teeth. Treatment is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, often in two or more sessions, treating different areas of the mouth each time.
After treatment, your gums may feel tender and slightly swollen once the anaesthetic wears off. Some bleeding when brushing or spitting is normal for a day or two. Avoid eating until the numbness has worn off to prevent biting your cheek or tongue. Choose soft, lukewarm foods and avoid very hot, spicy or crunchy foods for the first day. Over-the-counter pain relief can help if needed.
Teeth often feel more sensitive to cold after deep cleaning, because tartar that covered the roots has been removed and the gums begin to shrink as inflammation reduces. This sensitivity usually improves over a few weeks. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice a day and avoiding very cold drinks can help. If sensitivity is severe or lasts longer than a few weeks, let your dentist know, as desensitising treatments can be applied.
Although your gums may feel sore, it is important to keep brushing gently with a soft toothbrush. Clean between your teeth daily with interdental brushes or floss as advised, being gentle at first. Your dentist may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash or warm salt water rinses for a short time. Good cleaning during healing helps prevent bacteria from recolonising the pockets.
As gums heal, they often become firmer and pinker, and bleeding reduces significantly. Some people notice that their teeth look slightly longer or that small gaps appear between teeth. This happens because swollen gums shrink as inflammation settles. It is a sign of healing rather than damage.
Around six to eight weeks after treatment, your dentist will re-measure your gum pockets to see how well you have healed. Many pockets reduce significantly. If some deep pockets remain, further treatment may be recommended. You will then move to a periodontal maintenance programme with regular visits.
Avoid smoking and shisha, which slow healing and reduce treatment success. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar well controlled. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and attend all follow-up appointments.
Yes, some bleeding for a day or two is normal and should reduce as gums heal.
Usually a few weeks. Sensitivity toothpaste can help.
Many people notice firmer, pinker gums within a few weeks.
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