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Gum care

Scaling and root planing in Herriman

Told you need a deep cleaning? Here is what scaling and root planing is, why it is different from a regular cleaning and what the visit will feel like.

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What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning for gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots so your gums can heal and fit snugly around your teeth again.

  • Often called a deep cleaning or gum therapy
  • Your mouth is numbed so you stay comfortable
  • Often done in one or two visits

When a deep cleaning is needed

A regular cleaning cares for the teeth and the gumline. It works well when your gums are healthy. A deep cleaning is needed when germs and tartar have moved down below the gums and formed pockets. You may need it if:

  • Your gum pockets measure deeper than a healthy range
  • X-rays show early bone loss around your teeth
  • Your gums bleed, look puffy or have started to pull back
  • A regular cleaning has not been enough to calm your gums

Your dentist decides by measuring the pockets around each tooth. Not every area may need it. Some people need just one or two sections of the mouth treated. If you are not sure where you stand, our page on gum disease treatment explains the stages.

What to expect

  1. Numbing. We numb the area being cleaned so you stay comfortable.
  2. Scaling. Your hygienist or dentist uses small hand tools and an ultrasonic cleaner to remove tartar and germs from the pockets.
  3. Root planing. Rough spots on the roots are smoothed. Smooth roots make it harder for plaque to stick and easier for gums to reattach.
  4. Extra care if needed. Your dentist may place a medicine in deeper pockets.
  5. Follow-up. In about four to six weeks, we measure your gums again to see how they are healing.

Your mouth is often treated in sections, such as one side at a time. That keeps each visit shorter. For some patients, laser-assisted gum therapy may be added to the plan.

After your deep cleaning

  • Wait until the numbness wears off before you eat, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
  • Your gums may be sore and your teeth may feel sensitive to cold for a few days. Take pain relievers as your dentist directs.
  • Rinse gently with warm salt water to soothe your gums.
  • Eat soft foods for a day or two and skip very hot, spicy or crunchy foods.
  • Keep brushing and flossing gently. Clean gums heal better.

Call us if bleeding, swelling or pain gets worse instead of better after a few days.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about scaling and root planing

Does a deep cleaning hurt?
The area is numbed, so most people feel pressure and vibration more than pain. Your gums may be tender for a few days after.
How soon can I eat afterward?
You can eat once the numbness is gone, often in a few hours. Soft foods are easiest on your gums for the first day or two.
Will I need it again?
Many people only need it once if they keep up with home care and regular gum care visits. If pockets get deeper again, your dentist may suggest repeating it in some areas.
Why do my teeth feel sensitive after the cleaning?
Removing tartar can uncover parts of the root that were hidden. This can make teeth sensitive to cold for a while. It usually fades over a few weeks, and a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
Is a deep cleaning covered by insurance?
Many plans cover part of it as gum treatment, separate from regular cleanings. We check your plan and share an estimate before you start.

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Questions?

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Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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