Seeing a little pink in the sink when you brush or noticing your gums seem puffy can be unsettling. These are your body’s signals that your gums need some extra attention. Often, the best solution is a therapeutic deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This treatment goes below the gumline to remove the source of the inflammation. But it’s not a one-time fix; it’s the start of a new management plan. This leads to the crucial question: how often do you need scaling and root planing to keep your gums healthy long-term? The answer depends on your unique situation, and we’re here to explain what determines that frequency and how we can partner to protect your health.

Key Takeaways

• It’s More Than a Standard Cleaning: A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a specific treatment for active gum disease. It works below the gumline to remove infection and smooth tooth roots, creating a healthy environment for your gums to heal.
• Expect a Custom Treatment Plan: A deep cleaning is not a one-time fix; it’s the first step in managing a chronic condition. Your follow-up schedule will be personalized based on your specific gum health, home care, and overall wellness.
• Partner in Your Own Care: The long-term success of your treatment depends on your daily habits. Diligent brushing, flossing, and attending your recommended maintenance appointments are essential for keeping gum disease under control.

What Are Scaling and Root Planing?

If your dentist has mentioned scaling and root planing, you might know it by its more common name: a deep cleaning. While it sounds intense, it’s a standard and highly effective non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Think of it as a two-part process designed to press the reset button on your gum health. Unlike a routine cleaning, which is all about prevention, a deep cleaning is a therapeutic procedure we recommend when we see signs that your gums need extra help to heal and recover from inflammation and infection. It’s one of the most important tools we have to stop gum disease in its tracks and protect your smile for the long run. The goal is to treat the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. By going deep below the gum line, we can remove the bacterial buildup that leads to swollen gums, bleeding, and eventually, more serious issues like tooth loss. It’s a foundational treatment that creates a healthy environment for your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth, effectively closing the pockets that have formed. We see it as a partnership: we perform the deep cleaning, and you continue with great home care, giving you the best chance at lasting oral health.

What Is Scaling?

Scaling is the first step of your deep cleaning. During this part of the procedure, your hygienist will carefully remove all the plaque and tartar (also called calculus) from the surface of your teeth. The key difference here is that scaling cleans both above and below your gum line. While your daily brushing and flossing do a great job on the visible parts of your teeth, they can’t reach the hardened tartar that builds up in the small pockets between your teeth and gums. This buildup is what irritates your gums and causes inflammation, so thoroughly removing it is the essential first step toward healing.

What Is Root Planing?

Root planing immediately follows scaling and is the second crucial step in the process. After the tartar has been removed, your hygienist will meticulously smooth out the surfaces of your tooth roots. These roots can become rough and pitted from bacteria and tartar, creating a perfect environment for more plaque to accumulate. By planing the roots, we create a clean, smooth surface. This helps in two important ways: it makes it much more difficult for bacteria to stick to the roots in the future, and it encourages your gums to heal and reattach firmly to your teeth. This is a key part of our periodontal care.

How Is It Different From a Regular Cleaning?

It’s easy to confuse a deep cleaning with a regular one, but they serve very different purposes. A regular cleaning is all about prevention. It focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth above the gum line to help you maintain healthy gums. It’s a vital part of your preventive care routine. A deep cleaning, on the other hand, is a treatment for existing gum disease. It’s therapeutic, not preventive. The entire focus is on cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to stop the progression of gum disease and give your gums a chance to heal.

Signs You Might Need a Deep Cleaning

It’s easy to think that as long as your teeth don’t hurt, everything is fine. But gum health is a quiet, and incredibly important, part of your overall well-being. Gum disease can develop without causing any pain, so it’s crucial to know what to look for. While only a dentist can officially diagnose the need for a deep cleaning, you are the first line of defense. Paying attention to the signals your body sends is the first step toward getting the right care.

Many of these signs are your body’s way of telling you that there’s an infection brewing below the gumline, where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach. Ignoring them can allow the condition to progress, potentially leading to more serious issues down the road. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment so we can take a closer look. Let’s walk through what you should be watching for.

Swollen, Bleeding, or Receding Gums

Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed. If you see pink in the sink after brushing or find blood on your floss, that’s a clear sign of inflammation. This is often accompanied by gums that look red, puffy, or feel tender to the touch. These are the classic symptoms of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. You might also notice your gums starting to pull away from your teeth, making your teeth appear longer than usual. This is called gum recession. All of these signs point to an underlying infection that our preventive care approach aims to address, often with a deep cleaning to remove the source of irritation.

Persistent Bad Breath

We all have moments of less-than-fresh breath after a garlicky meal or a morning coffee. But if you find that you have bad breath (also called halitosis) that lingers all day, even after you’ve brushed your teeth, it could be a sign of something more. Persistent bad breath is often caused by the same bacteria responsible for gum infections. These bacteria release odorous compounds as they multiply in the pockets around your teeth. Mints and mouthwash might cover up the smell temporarily, but they don’t solve the root cause. A deep cleaning targets these bacteria where they hide, helping to eliminate the source of the odor for fresher, healthier breath.

Loose Teeth or Deep Gum Pockets

If you notice a tooth feeling slightly wiggly, it’s important to address it right away. Loose teeth are a more advanced sign of gum disease, indicating that the infection has started to damage the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place. As the disease progresses, it creates deeper spaces, or pockets, between your gums and teeth. These pockets become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and are impossible to clean with a regular toothbrush. A deep cleaning is designed to get into these pockets to clear out the infection and give your gums a chance to heal and reattach to your teeth, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.

Symptoms Only Your Dentist Can See

Sometimes, the most definitive signs of gum disease are completely invisible to you. You might not have any bleeding or bad breath, but an infection could still be present. During your check-up, we perform a periodontal exam where we use a tiny ruler, called a probe, to measure the depth of the space between your teeth and gums. Healthy gums have pockets that are 1 to 3 millimeters deep. Pockets deeper than that are a key indicator of gum disease. This is why regular dental visits are so critical. We can catch the problem early, long before you notice symptoms at home, and create a plan to get your gums healthy again.

How Often Will You Need a Deep Cleaning?

The frequency of your deep cleanings isn’t a one-size-fits-all number; it’s a schedule tailored specifically to you and the health of your gums. After your initial scaling and root planing procedure, we’ll work with you to create a personalized maintenance plan. The goal is to manage harmful bacteria, prevent the progression of gum disease, and keep your smile healthy for the long run. How often you’ll need to come in depends entirely on the severity of your gum disease. Our team will carefully assess your gums to determine the right path forward for your unique situation, based on whether your condition is mild, moderate, or advanced.

For Mild Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

If you have gingivitis, which is the earliest and most reversible stage of gum disease, you’re in a great position to turn things around. At this stage, a deep cleaning acts as a powerful reset for your gums. We typically recommend a scaling and root planing treatment followed by maintenance cleanings once or twice a year. This schedule helps to halt the progression of the disease and is a key part of your overall preventive care. Think of it as giving your gums the thorough cleaning they need to heal properly and stay healthy for years to come.

For Moderate Gum Disease

When gum disease progresses to a moderate stage, the pockets between your teeth and gums have deepened, allowing more bacteria to hide where your toothbrush can’t reach. To manage this effectively, we need to see you more often. For moderate gum disease, we generally recommend a deep cleaning every three to four months. This more frequent schedule is essential because it allows us to consistently disrupt the bacteria before they can cause further damage to your gums and the bone supporting your teeth. This regular maintenance is crucial for keeping the disease under control and preventing it from worsening.

For Advanced Gum Disease

In cases of advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, the infection has likely caused significant damage, including deeper gum pockets and potential bone loss. To manage this serious condition and protect your teeth, an even more diligent approach is required. Patients with advanced periodontitis often need deep cleanings every two to three months. This schedule is necessary to control the high levels of bacteria and stop the disease from progressing further. While it sounds intensive, this proactive care is the best way to manage the condition. If you have concerns, the best first step is to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.

What Determines Your Treatment Schedule?

So, how often will you need a deep cleaning? There’s no single answer, because your treatment plan should be as unique as your smile. The frequency of scaling and root planing depends entirely on your specific situation. Think of it less as a fixed appointment and more as a personalized schedule we create together to keep your gums healthy. Unlike a standard cleaning, which is mostly preventive, a deep cleaning is a treatment for active gum disease. The goal is to get the disease under control and then establish a maintenance schedule that prevents it from progressing.

Our team at Lowell Family Dental Practice looks at several key factors to determine what’s right for you. We consider your body’s unique response to bacteria, your daily habits, and your overall health profile. This comprehensive approach allows us to move beyond a one-size-fits-all model and provide care that truly addresses your needs. By understanding what influences your gum health, you can take an active role in your care and work with us to maintain a healthy foundation for your teeth. Let’s walk through the main things we consider when creating your deep cleaning schedule.

Your At-Home Oral Hygiene

What you do at home every single day makes a huge difference. Consistent, effective brushing and flossing are your first line of defense against the bacteria that cause gum disease. When you have a solid daily routine, you’re actively removing plaque before it has a chance to harden into tartar and cause inflammation. Patients who are diligent with their home care often find they can go longer between deep cleanings. We see it as a partnership; we’ll handle the deep cleaning, and you handle the daily maintenance. This teamwork is a core part of our approach to preventive care.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

It’s a well-known fact that using tobacco products can impact your health, and your gums are particularly vulnerable. Smoking and tobacco use can reduce blood flow to your gums, which makes it harder for them to heal and fight off infections. This creates an environment where gum disease can progress more quickly and be more difficult to manage. Because of this, individuals who smoke or use other tobacco products often require more frequent scaling and root planing appointments to keep their gums from getting worse. Our goal is to provide supportive, judgment-free care to help you manage your oral health effectively.

Other Health Conditions

Your mouth doesn’t exist in isolation; it’s deeply connected to the rest of your body. Certain systemic health conditions, like diabetes, can make you more susceptible to gum disease. For example, higher sugar levels in your saliva can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Other conditions that affect your immune system can also play a role. That’s why it’s so important for us to have a complete picture of your overall health. When you become one of our new patients, we ask for a thorough medical history so we can tailor your dental care to your specific needs and keep you healthy from head to toe.

Genetics and Family History

Have you ever felt like you do everything right but still struggle with your gums? Sometimes, genetics are the culprit. Just like you can inherit your eye color from your parents, you can also inherit a predisposition to gum disease. If your parents or siblings have a history of periodontal issues, you may be at a higher risk yourself, even with excellent oral hygiene. Knowing your family history is incredibly helpful because it allows us to be more vigilant. We can monitor your gums more closely and create a proactive plan to catch any potential problems early, which is a key part of our dental services.

Is a Deep Cleaning a One-Time Fix?

It’s a common question: once you’ve had a deep cleaning, are you done for good? The simple answer is usually no. Think of scaling and root planing not as a one-time cure, but as the first, most important step in managing gum disease and getting your oral health back on track. The frequency of follow-up care really depends on your specific situation and the severity of your gum disease. After your initial treatment, we’ll work with you to create a personalized plan to keep your gums healthy for the long haul.

Maintenance Cleanings vs. Repeat Treatments

After your deep cleaning, your follow-up care will fall into one of two categories: maintenance cleanings or repeat treatments. For some people, especially if the gum disease was caught early and they are diligent with their home care, one deep cleaning might be enough. They can then switch to a schedule of more frequent “periodontal maintenance” cleanings, which are more involved than a standard cleaning. These might be scheduled every three or four months. For others with more persistent or advanced gum disease, we may need to repeat the scaling and root planing procedure in specific areas down the road. Your personal dental care plan will be tailored to you.

How We Monitor Your Gums

Your follow-up appointments are where we team up to protect your progress. During these visits, we’ll carefully check the health of your gums. We will measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth to see if they have improved and look for any signs of new inflammation or bleeding. This regular monitoring is key because it allows us to catch any potential issues before they become serious again. It’s a partnership, and these check-ins ensure your treatment remains effective. If it’s been a while, you can always request an appointment so we can see how your gums are doing and get you on the right schedule.

The Link Between Gum Health and Your Overall Well-Being

Keeping up with your gum health maintenance does more than just protect your smile; it supports your entire body’s health. When your gums are inflamed, the harmful mouth bacteria causing the infection don’t always stay put. They can enter your bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body, contributing to other health issues. By treating gum disease, you’re not just preventing tooth loss and gum recession. You are also reducing the overall bacterial load on your system. Sticking with your recommended cleaning schedule is one of the best things you can do for your long-term, whole-body wellness.

What to Expect During and After Your Appointment

Knowing what happens during a deep cleaning can make the entire experience feel much more manageable. Our goal is to get your gums back to a healthy state, and we do everything we can to make the process smooth and comfortable for you. From the moment you sit in the chair to the days following your treatment, we’re here to support you. Here’s a clear breakdown of what the appointment and recovery look like.

Your Comfort Is Our Priority

Let’s start with the most important thing: your comfort. We know that the idea of a “deep” cleaning can sound intimidating, but we make sure the procedure is a painless one. To do this, we typically use a local anesthetic to completely numb the areas of your mouth we’ll be working on. You won’t feel the cleaning itself, just the light pressure of our tools. Our friendly dental team will check in with you throughout the appointment, and we encourage you to signal us if you feel any discomfort at all. Your peace of mind is just as important as your oral health.

The Step-by-Step Process

So, what actually happens during the procedure? After the anesthetic takes effect, we begin the first step: scaling. This is where we use specialized instruments, including an ultrasonic device and fine hand tools, to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below your gumline. Next comes root planing. We gently smooth the surfaces of your tooth roots, which helps prevent new bacteria from sticking and allows your gums to reattach to your teeth properly. The entire process can take one to two hours and may be completed in a single visit or split into two, depending on your specific needs.

Managing Soreness After Your Appointment

After your appointment, it’s normal to experience some temporary side effects as your gums begin to heal. Your gums might feel a little tender for a few days, and your teeth could be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness. We’ll give you specific aftercare instructions, but a good rule of thumb is to be extra gentle when brushing and flossing. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water two to three times a day can also soothe your gums and promote healing.

What to Eat During Recovery

For the first day or two after your deep cleaning, it’s best to stick with soft foods that won’t irritate your healing gums. Think smoothies, yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. You should also avoid anything extremely hot, spicy, or crunchy. As the soreness fades, you can gradually return to your normal diet, listening to your body and avoiding anything that causes discomfort. This short-term adjustment is a key part of a successful recovery and a big step toward maintaining your gum health for the long run. If you have any questions about your treatment, you can always request an appointment to discuss them with us.

Common Myths About Deep Cleanings

There’s a lot of chatter out there about deep cleanings, and not all of it is accurate. Let’s clear the air and tackle some of the most common myths we hear about scaling and root planing. Understanding the facts can help you feel more confident and prepared if this treatment is part of your dental care plan.

Myth: It’s just a more thorough regular cleaning.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. While both types of cleanings leave your teeth feeling fresh, they serve very different purposes. A regular cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth above the gumline. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a specific treatment for gum disease. It goes beneath the gumline to remove buildup from the roots of your teeth, smoothing them out to help your gums reattach and heal. Think of it as getting to the root of the problem, quite literally.

Myth: One treatment will cure my gum disease forever.

It would be wonderful if this were true, but gum disease is often a chronic condition that needs ongoing management. A deep cleaning is a crucial first step to get the infection under control, but it’s not a permanent cure. After your initial treatment, we’ll create a personalized maintenance plan just for you. This usually involves more frequent cleanings, typically every three to four months, to prevent the bacteria from returning and keep your gums healthy. Staying on top of this schedule is the key to managing gum disease long-term.

Myth: The procedure is going to be painful.

We hear this concern a lot, and we want to put your mind at ease. Your comfort is our absolute priority. A deep cleaning shouldn’t be a painful experience. To make sure you’re comfortable, we use a local anesthetic to numb the areas we’re working on. You might feel some pressure or movement, but you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, it’s normal to have some mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, but this is easily managed. We’re committed to providing stress-free dental care and will do everything we can to ensure you’re relaxed.

Myth: I don’t need it if my gums feel fine.

Unfortunately, a lack of pain doesn’t always mean a lack of problems. Early-stage gum disease, or gingivitis, often has very subtle symptoms that are easy to miss. You might not feel any discomfort at all. However, your dentist and hygienist are trained to spot the early warning signs, like deep gum pockets or inflammation that you can’t see. The goal is to address these issues early before they progress into a more serious problem that could threaten your teeth and overall health. This is why keeping up with your regular dental exams is so important for catching things before they become painful.

How to Protect Your Gums Between Visits

After a deep cleaning, your gums need consistent care to stay healthy and prevent future issues. Think of your scaling and root planing treatment as a reset button for your gum health. The daily habits you practice between appointments are what truly maintain those results and protect your smile long-term. Partnering with your dental team means taking an active role in your oral hygiene, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here are four key strategies to keep your gums in great shape.

Perfect Your Brushing and Flossing Technique

Your daily routine is your first line of defense. As experts will tell you, good daily oral hygiene is crucial for preventing and managing gum disease. This means brushing for two full minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Angle the brush at 45 degrees toward your gumline to gently sweep away plaque. And don’t forget to floss! Flossing once a day removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach. If you’re ever unsure about your technique, just ask. During your next preventive care visit, we’d be happy to show you the most effective methods for your specific needs.

Consider an Antimicrobial Mouthwash

While brushing and flossing are non-negotiable, adding a mouthwash can provide extra support. After a deep cleaning, we might recommend rinsing with warm salt water for a few days to soothe your gums. For long-term care, an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria that cause plaque and gingivitis. It’s a great way to reach areas you might have missed. However, not all mouthwashes are the same. Some are purely cosmetic, offering a fresh feeling without any real health benefits. It’s best to talk with us about which therapeutic rinse is right for you. We can recommend a product that will effectively support your gum health without causing irritation.

Eat a Gum-Friendly Diet

What you eat has a direct impact on your oral health. A balanced diet supports your body’s ability to fight infection, including in your gums. Try to incorporate crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery, which act like natural toothbrushes as you chew. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, are also excellent for gum health. On the flip side, try to limit sugary foods and drinks that feed plaque-causing bacteria. Making healthy lifestyle choices, like eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco, is a powerful way to support your overall well-being, starting with your smile. We believe your oral health is deeply connected to your general health, a philosophy we share with all our new patients.

Stick to Your Regular Dental Check-Ups

Even with the best at-home routine, professional cleanings are essential for removing hardened plaque (tartar) and monitoring your gum health. After a deep cleaning, we’ll create a personalized maintenance schedule for you. For patients with minimal risk, this might mean a cleaning every six months. However, if you’re at a higher risk for gum disease, we may recommend visits every three to four months to keep infection at bay. These maintenance cleanings are different from a standard cleaning and are critical for preventing a relapse. Staying on track with your appointments is the best way to protect your investment in your health. If it’s time to check on your gums, you can easily request an appointment online.

Take Control of Your Gum Health

Understanding your gum health is the first step toward protecting it. It’s easy to feel a little lost when you hear terms like “periodontal disease,” but you are in the driver’s seat. By partnering with your dental team, you can make informed decisions that protect your smile for years to come. Think of us as your dedicated co-pilots, here to guide you with personalized advice and care every step of the way.

Why Early Detection Is Key

When it comes to gum disease, what you can’t see can definitely hurt you. The earliest stage, known as gingivitis, often has subtle symptoms like minor swelling or bleeding when you brush. The good news is that gum disease is much easier to treat when we catch it early. At this point, it’s often completely reversible with professional cleanings and a solid at-home care routine. Regular dental visits are your best defense, allowing us to spot trouble before it develops into a more serious problem that requires treatments like scaling and root planing. If it’s been a while since your last check-up, we welcome new patients and would be happy to assess your gum health.

The Risks of Delaying Treatment

Putting off a dental visit is tempting, especially if you aren’t in pain. However, delaying treatment for gum disease can lead to significant and irreversible damage. If you don’t get the necessary care, you could face serious issues. These include gums pulling away from your teeth, bone loss around your teeth, persistent bad breath, and even loose teeth or tooth loss. While this sounds serious, these outcomes are not inevitable. Taking action with timely periodontal exams and treatment is the most effective way to stop the progression of gum disease and preserve the foundation of your smile. Don’t wait for discomfort to become your motivator.

How Knowledge Leads to Better Health

There isn’t a single schedule for everyone when it comes to scaling and root planing. Your needs are unique, and your treatment plan should be too. The right frequency depends entirely on your specific situation and the severity of your gum disease. This is why a strong partnership with your dentist is so important. We work with you to determine the best course of action, which always includes a foundation of good daily oral hygiene like brushing and flossing. These procedures are incredibly important for keeping your gums healthy, and we are here to create a personalized schedule that works for you. If you have concerns about your gums, let’s talk about them and create a plan together when you request an appointment.

Let’s Check on Your Gum Health at Lowell Family Dental

Your gum health is a cornerstone of your overall well-being, and our team is here to help you keep it in top shape. At Lowell Family Dental, we take a personalized and proactive approach to your care. We understand that procedures like scaling and root planing can sound intimidating, but they are simply special deep cleanings designed to treat gum disease and get your health back on track. We prioritize creating a stress-free environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in your treatment plan.

During your visit, we’ll carefully examine your gums to determine the best course of action for you. The frequency of deep cleanings varies from person to person. If you have early-stage gum disease, we might recommend a cleaning once or twice a year. For more moderate concerns, a schedule of every three to four months might be more effective at keeping buildup at bay. Our goal is to provide the exact level of comprehensive care you need to maintain a healthy smile.

After an initial deep cleaning, consistent follow-up is crucial. These maintenance appointments are an essential part of your long-term health strategy, allowing us to monitor your progress and prevent new issues from developing. We believe in building a partnership with you for your dental health. If you have any concerns about your gums or think you might benefit from a deep cleaning, the best thing you can do is come in for a check-up. Let’s work together to protect your smile. You can easily schedule an appointment with our team today.

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• Gum Disease (Gingivitis) – Lowell Family Dental Practice & Implant Center
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Frequently Asked Questions

Will a deep cleaning be painful? This is the number one question we get, and I’m happy to say the answer is no. We prioritize your comfort above all else. Before we begin, we use a local anesthetic to completely numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure itself. It’s normal to have some mild tenderness or sensitivity in your gums for a few days afterward as they heal, but this is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and by following our simple aftercare instructions.

Why can’t I just get a regular cleaning instead? Think of it this way: a regular cleaning is for prevention, like washing your car to keep it looking good. A deep cleaning is a treatment, like taking your car to a mechanic to fix an issue under the hood. If you have signs of gum disease, a regular cleaning won’t solve the problem because it only cleans above the gumline. A deep cleaning is needed to get below the gumline and remove the infection at its source, giving your gums a chance to heal properly.

If I get a deep cleaning, am I stuck getting them forever? Not exactly. A deep cleaning is the first major step in getting gum disease under control. After this initial treatment, you won’t necessarily need another full scaling and root planing procedure. Instead, you’ll move onto a schedule of “periodontal maintenance” cleanings. These are more thorough than a standard cleaning and are scheduled more frequently, usually every three to four months, to prevent the infection from returning and keep your gums healthy long-term.

What happens if I decide not to get a recommended deep cleaning? Delaying a recommended deep cleaning allows the bacterial infection in your gums to continue progressing. Gum disease doesn’t go away on its own. Over time, the infection can lead to more significant problems, including gums pulling away from your teeth, damage to the bone that supports your teeth, and eventually, loose teeth or even tooth loss. Acting on the recommendation is the best way to stop the disease in its tracks and prevent irreversible damage.

My gums don’t hurt, so why would I need this procedure? Pain is often a late symptom of gum disease. The condition can develop and progress for a long time without causing any discomfort. The most definitive signs, like the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums, are things only a dental professional can measure. If we recommend a deep cleaning, it’s because we see signs of an active infection that needs to be treated before it becomes a painful or more serious problem.