Deep cleanings and scaling are essential procedures for treating gum disease and maintaining long-term oral health. However, for many patients, the idea of a more intensive cleaningparticularly one that involves scaling below the gumlinecan trigger significant anxiety, discomfort, or fear of pain. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, Ontario, we understand that not every patient feels comfortable with traditional cleanings. Thats why we offer dental sedation options to make deep cleanings more manageable, calming, and pain-free.
In this blog, we explore how sedation dentistry enhances the experience of deep cleaning procedures, who its suitable for, and how we ensure a safe and stress-free visit.
What Is Deep Cleaning and Scaling?
Deep cleaningalso known as scaling and root planingis a non-surgical periodontal procedure used to treat gum disease (periodontitis). Unlike a routine dental cleaning that focuses on the surface of the teeth, deep cleaning involves:
Scaling: Removing hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from above and below the gumline
Root planing: Smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach and reduce future buildup
This procedure is typically performed when the gums have pulled away from the teeth and pockets have formed, allowing bacteria to accumulate and damage the supporting bone.
Why Deep Cleaning Can Trigger Dental Anxiety
While essential for preventing tooth loss and reversing gum disease, deep cleaning is more intensive than a regular cleaning and often requires local anesthesia. Many patients feel anxious about:
The depth of the cleaning below the gumline
The duration of the procedure, especially if multiple quadrants are treated
Discomfort or soreness during or after the treatment
Past experiences with dental pain or sensitivity
The sounds of scraping tools or dental instruments
Sedation dentistry is a powerful solution for managing these concerns and helping patients stay calm and still during the entire appointment.
Sedation Options for Deep Cleaning at McLevin Dental
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we tailor sedation options to the level of anxiety, sensitivity, and the extent of the treatment. For deep cleanings and scaling, we typically recommend the following:
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
A mild inhaled sedative that takes effect within minutes
Helps patients feel relaxed and less aware of discomfort
Ideal for patients with mild to moderate anxiety
Wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately
Best suited for: Patients receiving a single quadrant of scaling or those with manageable anxiety who want to stay alert during treatment.
2. Oral Sedation
Administered as a prescribed pill before the appointment
Provides a deeper level of calm and drowsiness
Reduces awareness of sounds, sensations, and duration of the procedure
May cause limited memory of the treatment
Best suited for: Patients undergoing multiple quadrants of deep cleaning or those with moderate dental anxiety.
3. IV Sedation (Intravenous Sedation)
Delivered through a vein for fast, controlled sedation
Allows patients to be semi-conscious and relaxed throughout
Can be adjusted in real time during the procedure
Requires post-procedure supervision and medical clearance
Best suited for: Patients with severe dental phobia, sensory processing issues, or those requiring extensive periodontal care in one session.
Who Should Consider Sedation for Deep Cleaning?
Sedation dentistry may be especially helpful for:
Patients with high dental anxiety or phobia
Individuals with a low pain threshold or gum sensitivity
Patients with severe periodontal disease requiring multiple sessions
Those with gag reflex issues or difficulty remaining still
Patients who need multiple procedures in one visit and prefer comfort
During your consultation, we will review your medical history and dental goals to recommend the safest and most effective sedation plan for your needs.
Combining Comfort with Clinical Excellence
At McLevin Dental, sedation is part of our broader philosophy of compassionate, patient-centered care. When you choose sedation for deep cleaning:
We ensure full monitoring of your vital signs throughout the procedure
Our team provides gentle, respectful communication every step of the way
Youll receive aftercare instructions to help you recover comfortably
We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor gum healing and progress
We dont just treat your gumswe take care of your overall comfort and emotional wellbeing.
Benefits of Completing Deep Cleaning with Sedation
Choosing sedation for scaling and root planing offers many advantages:
Less stress and fear, allowing for a more pleasant experience
Improved treatment outcomes through better cooperation and stillness
Fewer appointments, as more areas can be treated at once
A renewed willingness to maintain regular dental visits in the future
Sedation dentistry helps transform what could be an overwhelming procedure into a manageable, even relaxing, experience.
Reclaim Your Oral Health in Comfort
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are committed to helping every patient overcome obstacles to dental care. If gum disease treatment feels intimidating, know that sedation dentistry can make deep cleanings a stress-free and comfortable part of your wellness routine.