Don't Threaten More Than Your Smile
Gum Disease Health
Gum disease can threaten more than your smile—it can lead to tooth loss and even affect your overall health. When bacteria-laden plaque and tartar form pockets beneath swollen gums, a deep cleaning is needed to reverse the damage.
Also known as scaling and root planing or periodontal therapy, a deep cleaning removes plaque, tartar and bacteria from both the tooth surface and the root.
After cleaning, the roots are smoothed so gums can reattach and bacteria have a harder time returning. This gold-standard treatment helps restore healthy gums and protect your teeth for the long term.
Procedure Overview
Benefits of Deep Cleanings
Deep cleanings can halt or slow gum disease by removing harmful buildup below the gum line. They often restore swollen, bleeding gums to a healthy state and reduce the need for future surgery. For many patients, regular deep cleanings and follow-up maintenance visits become an essential part of preventing disease from returning.
Overview of Periodontal Treatments
If gum disease has caused tissue loss, we may recommend grafting to replace receded gums and protect exposed roots. We also apply topical antimicrobial solutions to eliminate infection. In advanced cases, your general dentist may refer you to a periodontist—an expert who has completed extra training in treating severe gum disease—to collaborate on a customized plan that keeps your gum health on track.