- 1303 Plaza Dr, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, are a non-surgical periodontal treatment designed to address gum disease and prevent further damage to the teeth and supporting bone. At Tilley Family Dentistry, we recommend deep cleanings when signs of gum infection or inflammation are present below the gumline.
This treatment focuses on removing harmful bacteria and buildup that cannot be reached with routine dental cleanings.
Gum disease often develops silently, without pain in its early stages. During routine exams and cleanings, we evaluate your gum health by measuring pocket depths around the teeth and checking for inflammation, bleeding, or bone loss.
Deep cleanings may be recommended if you experience:
Bleeding or swollen gums
Persistent bad breath
Gum recession
Deep periodontal pockets
Early or moderate periodontal disease
Unlike a regular dental cleaning, deep cleaning targets bacteria and buildup below the gumline where infection develops. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and beneath the gums, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach and heal.
This process helps:
Deep cleanings are typically performed using local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Depending on the severity of gum disease, treatment may be completed in sections over multiple visits.
During the procedure, our team will:
Numb the treatment area for comfort
Remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
Smooth root surfaces to promote healing
Provide guidance for at-home care following treatment
After scaling and root planing, it is normal to experience mild soreness or sensitivity, which typically resolves within a few days. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up visits is essential for long-term success.
We may recommend:
