Moreno Valley Dentist
Gentle Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) in Moreno Valley
In a perfectly healthy mouth, your gum tissue fits tightly and securely around the base of each tooth, much like a snug turtleneck. However, when sticky plaque is allowed to harden into tartar (calculus) beneath the gumline, the surrounding tissue becomes severely inflamed. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating deep periodontal "pockets" where regular brushing and flossing simply cannot reach.
At Moreno Beach Dental, we use a specialized treatment called scaling and root planing to reach deep into those pockets and clear out the infection. Dr. Myung Kee Park, FAGD, and our gentle hygiene team are dedicated to helping you restore your oral health before permanent bone loss occurs. We proudly provide this essential, tooth-saving periodontal therapy to patients throughout Moreno Valley, Riverside, Perris, Beaumont, Redlands, Loma Linda, and Grand Terrace.
Scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as a "deep cleaning," is a proactive medical therapy used to treat active gum disease (periodontitis). It goes beneath the gumline to directly address the source of the bacterial infection that is actively destroying your supportive tissue and jawbone.
Before we begin scaling, we use a highly effective local anesthetic to completely numb your gums and the surrounding tissues. You will likely feel some slight pressure or vibration from the ultrasonic tools, but you should not feel any pain during the procedure. To keep your time in the chair completely manageable and comfortable, we typically treat one half of your mouth (the right side) during your first visit, and the other half (the left side) a week or two later.
At Moreno Beach Dental, we use a specialized treatment called scaling and root planing to reach deep into those pockets and clear out the infection. Dr. Myung Kee Park, FAGD, and our gentle hygiene team are dedicated to helping you restore your oral health before permanent bone loss occurs. We proudly provide this essential, tooth-saving periodontal therapy to patients throughout Moreno Valley, Riverside, Perris, Beaumont, Redlands, Loma Linda, and Grand Terrace.
What is the Difference Between a Regular and a Deep Cleaning?
When you come in for a standard six-month checkup, our hygienist performs a "prophylaxis" cleaning. This routine service only focuses on cleaning the crowns of the teeth—the visible parts above the gumline. It is a preventative measure meant for mouths that are already healthy.Scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as a "deep cleaning," is a proactive medical therapy used to treat active gum disease (periodontitis). It goes beneath the gumline to directly address the source of the bacterial infection that is actively destroying your supportive tissue and jawbone.
The Two-Step Deep Cleaning Process
To ensure we thoroughly eliminate the infection and give your gums the best chance to heal, this non-surgical procedure is carefully broken down into two distinct phases:- Step 1: Scaling: Using specialized ultrasonic and hand instruments, our hygienist meticulously breaks up and removes the hardened tartar, plaque, and bacterial toxins from both the visible surface of the tooth and deep down within the periodontal pockets.
- Step 2: Root Planing: After the tartar is cleared away, we gently smooth (plane) the rough surfaces of your tooth roots. Bacteria love to cling to rough patches, so smoothing these areas prevents future buildup. More importantly, it creates a clean, glass-like surface that encourages your healing gum tissue to firmly reattach to the tooth, closing up the deep pockets.
Ensuring Your Absolute Comfort
We understand that the phrase "deep cleaning" can sound intimidating, especially if your gums are already sensitive and swollen. Your comfort is our top priority!Before we begin scaling, we use a highly effective local anesthetic to completely numb your gums and the surrounding tissues. You will likely feel some slight pressure or vibration from the ultrasonic tools, but you should not feel any pain during the procedure. To keep your time in the chair completely manageable and comfortable, we typically treat one half of your mouth (the right side) during your first visit, and the other half (the left side) a week or two later.
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FAQs
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
During the procedure, you will be completely numb, so it is a painless process. After the numbness wears off, it is very normal for your gums to feel tender, slightly sore, or sensitive to extreme hot and cold temperatures for a few days. Rinsing with warm saltwater and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen will easily manage any mild discomfort while your gums heal.
Will my gums grow back after a deep cleaning?
Gum tissue that has been lost to periodontal disease does not naturally grow back. However, scaling and root planing removes the infection causing the inflammation. As your gums heal, the swelling will go down, the bleeding will stop, and the tissue will tighten up significantly around the teeth, preventing any further recession or bone loss.
Do I need antibiotics with my deep cleaning?
In some cases, yes. If your periodontal pockets are very deep or the infection is aggressive, Dr. Park may recommend placing a localized antibiotic directly into the pockets after the cleaning. This medicine slowly releases over time, ensuring all remaining bacteria are destroyed and helping your gums heal faster.
How often will I need my teeth cleaned after this treatment?
Once you have been diagnosed and treated for active periodontal disease, a standard six-month cleaning is no longer enough to keep the bacteria at bay. We will likely transition you to a "Periodontal Maintenance" schedule, which involves coming in for a targeted cleaning every 3 to 4 months to ensure the deep pockets remain clean and the infection does not return.
Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with Dr. Myung Kee Park or our dental team for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your or your child's specific dental needs and conditions.
