Many patients get worried when they notice a small gap between their teeth after a dental cleaning. If you’ve recently visited Arsh Dental Care for a professional scaling and suddenly feel a space that wasn’t there before — don’t panic!
This is actually very common and, in most cases, completely normal and healthy.
In this blog, we explain why gaps appear after cleaning, how long they last, when it’s a sign of gum disease, and what you should do next.
Let’s clear all your doubts.
Why Do Gaps Appear After Teeth Cleaning?
Professional dental cleaning removes:
Tartar (calculus)
Plaque
Stains
Food deposits stuck between teeth
These deposits sometimes fill the natural spaces between teeth. Once the dentist removes them, those hidden spaces become visible, which makes you feel like a gap has newly formed.
- Deposits were acting like a “false wall”
Over time, hard tartar builds up between teeth and creates a fake thickness. After cleaning, the tooth returns to its real shape, making spaces look larger. - Swollen gums shrink after cleaning
If your gums were inflamed due to plaque, they look puffy.
After cleaning, inflammation reduces and your gums return to normal, which can create slight spaces. - Gum disease (periodontitis)
If you have deep pockets or bone loss, cleaning removes heavy deposits from below the gum line.
This may reveal existing natural gaps that were previously hidden.
Is the Gap Permanent?
In most cases NO.
The gap usually reduces within 7–14 days as:
Gums heal
Swelling settles
Tissue reattaches to the tooth
If the gap existed because of gum disease, some spaces may remain but can be managed with proper oral hygiene and specialized treatments.
When Should You Be Concerned?
You should visit the dentist if:
The gap increases over time
Food keeps getting stuck in the same area
You experience bleeding gums
There is pain while chewing
You feel mobility in the teeth
You notice bad breath even after cleaning
These can be signs of gum recession or periodontitis.
How Dentists Treat Persistent Gaps
At Arsh Dental Care, Chandkheda, we offer treatments depending on the cause: - Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
If gum disease is present, deeper cleaning helps reduce pockets. - Gum (Periodontal) Treatment
For severe bone loss or receding gums. - Composite Filling for Black Triangles
A tooth-coloured resin is placed to close visible spaces. - Orthodontic Treatment
Braces or aligners can correct misaligned teeth causing spacing. - Regular Maintenance Cleaning
Prevents tartar buildup and keeps gums healthy.
How to Take Care After Cleaning to Avoid Gaps
Follow these dentist-recommended tips:
Brush twice daily with a soft brush
Use interdental brushes for tight contacts
Floss regularly
Warm saltwater rinses for 3 days
Avoid smoking
Visit for follow-up cleaning every 6 months
Final Takeaway: Gaps After Cleaning Are Normal
A gap after cleaning does not mean the dentist damaged your tooth — it means the dirt hiding the gap is finally gone.
Most spaces shrink naturally as the gums heal.
If the gap persists or bothers you, we can easily treat it with modern, painless dentistry.