Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling & Root planing is a deep teeth cleaning that cleans your gum lines, tooth pockets, and other structures of the teeth. This is typically needed for treating and fighting gum disease resulting from plaque and tartar buildup. When gingivitis and periodontitis (gum disease) occur, there is plaque colonized deep inside your gum tissues. This results from your body destroying its very own gums. Deep cleaning with scaling & root planing can bring better dental stability.
What Causes Gum Disease
Plaque that is left undisturbed turns to tartar, which is impossible to clean without the help of your local dental professional. In addition, diabetics and smokers have a high prevalence of gum disease. It is estimated that 47% of the population in the United States has gum disease, also known as periodontitis.
Why Do I Need a Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is done to remove infectious bacteria underneath your gums. Periodontists spend an additional three years training in diagnosing and treating gum disease.
What if My Deep Cleaning Didn’t Work
In many instances, patients will respond very well to deep cleaning; however, some areas do not respond as well and may require surgical intervention. Our surgeons can help diagnose if additional therapy is needed due to persistent bleeding gums.
What if I’m Nervous
Our surgeons are licensed to administer IV sedation to help relieve your anxiety and give you a wonderful experience during your dental procedure.
Our periodontists offer deep cleaning treatment throughout Edinburg, McAllen, and nearby Rio Grande Valley communities, to clean your. gum lines and other parts of your teeth. So visit our dental office today to get healthy teeth & gums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can periodontal deep cleaning improve bad breath?
Yes — deep cleaning removes the bacteria and tartar below the gum line that often cause persistent bad breath, helping improve breath as the gums heal.
How is scaling and root planing different from a regular dental cleaning?
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line and smooths root surfaces, whereas regular cleaning focuses only above the gum line.
Can deep cleaning make my teeth feel loose?
After removing hardened tartar, teeth may feel looser temporarily — but this reflects existing bone loss from gum disease, not damage from the procedure itself.
Is periodontal deep cleaning safe for patients with gum disease?
Yes — when performed by trained professionals, deep cleaning is a safe, first‑line treatment for gum disease that reduces harmful bacteria and supports gum healing.
Can deep cleaning reduce the risk of tooth loss?
By removing deep‑seated plaque and tartar and promoting gum reattachment, deep cleaning helps halt the progression of gum disease and can lower the risk of tooth loss.