Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
Progression of Periodontal Disease
Gums are pink, firm, and do not bleed. No bone loss. Maintain with regular professional care.
Gums become red and swollen, may bleed easily. Early, reversible stage with proper treatment.
Pockets form, bacteria attack the bone. Irreversible damage starts; requires professional intervention.
Severe bone loss, teeth become loose or lost. Advanced care needed to save remaining teeth.
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes stubborn plaque and tartar below the gumline that regular cleanings miss, preventing gum disease progression and tooth loss. Our practice uses high-tech ultrasonic instruments and advanced laser therapy like LANAP for a thorough yet painless experience. Benefits include reduced inflammation, healthier gums, fresher breath, and protection for your teeth—all with minimal discomfort and rapid recovery thanks to our minimally invasive, state-of-the-art techniques.
If you have advanced gum disease, you may need a scaling and root planing procedure to address the issue. The etiologic agents causing the issue need to be removed for the health of your teeth and gums. This means the removal of dental plaque and tartar. A scaling and root planing procedure (also known as a “deep cleaning”) is a non-surgical procedure that removes the plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This can reverse gingivitis and treat symptoms of periodontitis.
Reasons for Scaling and Root Planing There are a few reasons why your dentist will suggest a scaling and root planing procedure. These include: Tooth protection – What many people don’t realize about gum disease is that it doesn’t just affect the gums. If the disease gets bad enough, it can actually lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world. Disease prevention –The oral bacteria caused by periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body. This includes the heart and lungs. Scaling and root planing will remove bacteria and stop periodontal disease from progressing. This prevents bacteria from traveling to other areas of the body. Aesthetic effects – No one likes having tartar and plaque on their teeth. Nor do they like having inflamed and red gums. A deep cleaning helps your teeth and gums to look much healthier—which is much more attractive. Better breath – Bad breath is not only a sign of gum disease but is a problem in and of itself. Food particles and bacteria can lead to persistent bad breath. Deep cleaning alleviates this issue and improves the smell of your breath. No matter what the reason, you’ll need to have a deep cleaning procedure performed if your dentist suggests it. Do not wait on this procedure, as the issue will get worse.
What do Scaling and Root Planing Treatments Involve? The process of scaling and root planing begins with a trip to the dentist for an examination. During the assessment, your dentist will perform a visual examination and take x-rays. From there, they will diagnose the issue and determine if a deep cleaning is required. This will depend on the condition of your gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of your gum disease. Scaling . The scaling part of the procedure is performed with specialized equipment. This may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. This tool removes plaque and tartar from the crown and root surfaces. The scaling tool often includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gumline. This helps reduce oral bacteria. Root Planing . The root planing procedure removes cementum and surface dentin that has harmful microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The roof of the patient’s tooth is smooth to promote healing. Having smooth and clean root surfaces helps to prevent bacteria from colonizing in the future. After the deep cleaning procedure, gum pockets may be treated with the use of antibiotics. This helps to soothe irritation and allows the gum tissues to heal fast. A dentist or hygienist thoroughly examines the gums during the next appointment to see how the pockets have healed. If the pockets are still more than 3mm deep, additional treatment may be recommended.
What the Therapy Involves
Our Advanced Techniques & Top-of-the-Line Approach
Every procedure is performed with cutting-edge technology and premium materials by board-certified periodontists.
- • LANAP™ & LAPIP™ Laser Therapy – FDA-cleared, minimally invasive laser treatment for gums and failing implants with faster healing and less discomfort.
- • 3D CBCT Imaging & Guided Surgery – Precise planning for optimal outcomes in implants, grafts, and complex cases.
- • Premium Regenerative Materials – High-quality bone grafts, membranes, and biocompatible options for superior integration.
- • Minimally Invasive & Sedation Options – IV and oral sedation, gentle techniques to ensure your comfort and rapid recovery.
- • State-of-the-Art Sterilization & Monitoring – Highest standards for safety in every therapy.
- • Customized, Evidence-Based Care – Tailored plans combining the best of traditional expertise and modern innovation.
Whether placing top-of-the-line dental implants or performing advanced laser periodontal therapy, we use only the highest quality systems and protocols for lasting results.
Procedure Details
What do Scaling and Root Planing Treatments Involve? The process of scaling and root planing begins with a trip to the dentist for an examination. During the assessment, your dentist will perform a visual examination and take x-rays. From there, they will diagnose the issue and determine if a deep cleaning is required. This will depend on the condition of your gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of your gum disease. Scaling . The scaling part of the procedure is performed with specialized equipment. This may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. This tool removes plaque and tartar from the crown and root surfaces. The scaling tool often includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gumline. This helps reduce oral bacteria. Root Planing . The root planing procedure removes cementum and surface dentin that has harmful microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The roof of the patient’s tooth is smooth to promote healing. Having smooth and clean root surfaces helps to prevent bacteria from colonizing in the future. After the deep cleaning procedure, gum pockets may be treated with the use of antibiotics. This helps to soothe irritation and allows the gum tissues to heal fast. A dentist or hygienist thoroughly examines the gums during the next appointment to see how the pockets have healed. If the pockets are still more than 3mm deep, additional treatment may be recommended.
Benefits
- Tooth protection – What many people don’t realize about gum disease is that it doesn’t just affect the gums. If the disease gets bad enough, it can actually lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world.
- Disease prevention –The oral bacteria caused by periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body. This includes the heart and lungs. Scaling and root planing will remove bacteria and stop periodontal disease from progressing. This prevents bacteria from traveling to other areas of the body.
- Aesthetic effects – No one likes having tartar and plaque on their teeth. Nor do they like having inflamed and red gums. A deep cleaning helps your teeth and gums to look much healthier—which is much more attractive.
- Better breath – Bad breath is not only a sign of gum disease but is a problem in and of itself. Food particles and bacteria can lead to persistent bad breath. Deep cleaning alleviates this issue and improves the smell of your breath.
Make an Appointment for Deep Cleaning
Whether you have symptoms or simply want to protect your smile, our team is here with gentle, effective care.
Schedule Your VisitMost appointments can be scheduled within a few days.