Deep Cleaning for Teeth in Barnet | Gum Disease Treatment

A deep clean is a medical treatment for active gum disease, not a cosmetic procedure. You should book an assessment if you notice gums bleed when you brush, persistent bad breath, or teeth feel loose. It is the right treatment if you see gum recession or have been told you have pockets between teeth and gums. Many of our Barnet patients pursue this treatment when a standard scale and polish has not resolved their gum inflammation. According to the Oral Health Foundation, gum disease affects most adults in the UK, and this treatment can halt its progression.

The process is straightforward and focused on comfort. First, you have an initial 45 minute assessment to gauge your gums and confirm the need for treatment. The deep clean is usually split into two 60 minute visits. Local anaesthetic is used so you feel no pain. Next, the hygienist removes tartar and plaque from below the gumline with special instruments. Then they smooth the tooth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. Finally, a follow up is scheduled 4 to 6 weeks later to check healing and plan long term maintenance.

A 45-year-old patient from High Barnet visited us with concerns about bleeding gums and sensitivity. An examination showed early stage periodontitis with 4–5 mm pockets. We performed a deep clean over two sessions. Combined with tailored oral hygiene instructions, at the 3 month follow up his pocket depths had reduced to a healthy 2–3 mm, and the bleeding had stopped. This prevented the need for more complex periodontal surgery down the line.

A patient with a dental implant was referred to us because of inflammation around it, a condition known as peri-implantitis. A deep clean around the implant and adjacent teeth removed the harmful bacteria causing the issue. This prompt hygiene treatment was essential for preventing bone loss that could have led to the failure of the £2,500 implant investment. Regular, thorough cleaning is key to implant longevity.

After a deep clean, expect some tooth sensitivity and mild gum tenderness for a few days. For the first 24 to 48 hours, eat a soft diet like soup, yogurt, and smoothies, and avoid very hot, cold, or spicy foods. Manage discomfort with over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Maintain excellent oral hygiene and be gentle around the treated areas for several days. Red flags requiring attention: Call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9–5, Tue/Thu 11–7) if you have severe pain that does not ease with painkillers, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection like swelling or fever. For emergencies outside these hours, please call 111.

While deep cleaning is the gold standard for active periodontitis, other options exist. If your gum disease is very early (gingivitis), a series of regular, intensive hygiene appointments may reverse the condition without a full deep clean. This is most effective before deep pockets form. For very advanced cases with significant bone loss, deep cleaning is the first step, but you may be referred for periodontal surgery to access the roots and regenerate bone. We always discuss the most conservative and effective option for you.

To make an informed choice about your gum health, here are key questions to ask, whether with us or another practice in the Barnet area: What are your qualifications and experience with treating periodontitis? Based on my assessment, how many sessions will I need and what will the total cost be? Is local anaesthetic always used for this procedure? What specific results can I expect, and how will we measure success? What is the long term maintenance plan after the deep cleaning is complete?

As a private dental practice, we do not offer NHS treatments. The cost of a deep clean depends on the severity of your gum disease and the number of appointments required. Prices are quoted on a per case basis after a full periodontal assessment. This ensures there are no hidden fees. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation, and we can help clarify your coverage for periodontal treatment.