Plaque is sneaky. It’s the clingy ex of the dental world, always showing up where it’s not wanted, making things worse over time, and refusing to leave without intervention. While routine cleanings do a great job keeping most surface-level buildup at bay, sometimes your gums need extra help.
That’s where deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, comes in.
This isn’t your typical polish-and-rinse appointment. Scaling and root planing is a focused, below-the-gumline procedure designed to treat early-stage gum disease and prevent it from worsening. It sounds intimidating, but it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your smile from serious periodontal problems down the road.
What is Scaling and Root Planing? Breaking Down the Procedure
Scaling and root planing is a two-step cleaning process that targets the stubborn plaque and tartar hiding beneath your gumline. First comes scaling, where your hygienist uses specialized tools to remove hardened deposits on your teeth and roots. Then comes root planing, which smooths out the root surfaces so your gums can reattach properly and bacteria have a harder time finding a place to hide.
It’s more thorough than a regular cleaning and often done under local anesthesia, especially if your gums are tender or inflamed.
How Deep Cleaning Differs from Routine Dental Cleaning
Think of a routine dental cleaning like tidying up your kitchen counter, and scaling and root planing like deep-scrubbing behind the stove. Routine cleanings focus on the visible parts of your teeth and gumline. Deep cleaning goes below the surface, removing buildup that can’t be reached with standard tools or flossing.
While a routine cleaning is part of regular dental maintenance, scaling and root planing are prescribed when early signs of gum disease are present, meaning it’s less about routine and more about intervention.
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning for Your Gums
Gum disease can be a quiet saboteur, but there are warning signs. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to talk to your dentist:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer than usual
- Tender, swollen, or red gums
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth
- Loose or shifting teeth
Even if you’re not feeling pain, gum disease can still damagethe tissue below the surface.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Your mouth will likely be numbed during the procedure to keep things comfortable. Depending on the work needed, it might be done in one visit or split into two sessions. Afterward, your gums might feel sore or sensitive, and you may notice slight bleeding for a day or two.
You’ll be back to normal quickly with proper aftercare—gentle brushing, an antimicrobial rinse, and maybe a soft-food diet for a day or two. And your gums will thank you.
Think you might need more than just a surface scrub? Contact Foutz Family Dentistry to determine if scaling and root planingis right for your gums.




