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Periodontics Education

Deep Cleaning and Scaling and Root Planing: What to Expect

Learn what scaling and root planing does, why it is different from a routine cleaning, and how it helps treat gum disease.

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Deep Cleaning and Scaling and Root Planing: What to Expect from NOVA Implant & Perio Specialists

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Quick Answer

What Patients Need to Know

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces so inflamed gum tissue can heal more effectively.

It is different from a routine cleaning because it treats periodontal pockets and root surfaces affected by gum disease.

Key Points

Deep cleaning treats below the gumline.
Local anesthetic may be used for comfort.
Treatment may be divided by areas of the mouth.
Healing depends on home care and follow-up.
Periodontal maintenance usually follows treatment.

Why a Deep Cleaning Is Recommended

A routine cleaning focuses on the visible tooth surfaces and shallow gumline deposits. Scaling and root planing is recommended when deeper pockets allow plaque and tartar to collect below the gumline.

Removing these deposits helps reduce bacterial irritation and gives the gum tissue a better chance to tighten and heal around the teeth.

What Happens During Treatment

The clinician carefully cleans the tooth roots and periodontal pockets. Depending on sensitivity and pocket depth, local anesthetic may be used. Some patients have treatment completed in sections so each area can be cleaned thoroughly.

Pocket measurements
Local anesthetic when needed
Removal of tartar below the gumline
Root surface smoothing
Home care instructions

After Scaling and Root Planing

Mild tenderness is common after treatment. Patients are usually given specific brushing, flossing, rinsing, and diet guidance. A follow-up visit helps evaluate healing and decide whether additional periodontal therapy is needed.

Related Procedures

Treatment Options Connected to This Topic

These procedure pages explain the clinical services that may be discussed during your periodontal evaluation.

Scaling and Root Planing

A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline and treat gum disease.

Periodontal Maintenance

Ongoing professional care to keep gum disease under control after active treatment.

Soft Tissue Laser Surgery

Minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease and soft tissue procedures with less discomfort.

Osseous Surgery

Surgical reshaping of the bone supporting the teeth to eliminate pockets caused by gum disease.

Northern Virginia Periodontal Education

Care Across 4 Locations

NOVA Implant & Perio Specialists provides periodontal and dental implant specialty care in Sterling, Leesburg, Aldie, and Winchester. Education pages help patients prepare, but the right plan depends on a specialist evaluation with Dr. Jean-Claude Kharmouche and the periodontal team.

Sterling, VA

(703) 444-4377

Leesburg, VA

(571) 291-2596

Aldie, VA

(703) 327-2200

Winchester, VA

(540) 668-4867

Deep Cleaning FAQs

Answers to common questions about this periodontics topic.

Is scaling and root planing painful?

Local anesthetic can be used to keep the area comfortable. Mild soreness or tenderness afterward is common and usually manageable.

How is deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning?

A regular cleaning treats the visible surfaces. Scaling and root planing treats deeper deposits below the gumline and root surfaces affected by periodontal disease.

Will deep cleaning cure gum disease?

It can control inflammation for many patients, but periodontitis often requires ongoing maintenance and sometimes additional treatment.

Ready to Discuss Your Gum Health?

Request an appointment to review your gum pockets, bone support, recession, bleeding, treatment options, and maintenance needs with the specialty team.

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