Has your hygienist recommended a “deep cleaning” and you’re wondering why your regular checkups aren’t enough? The short answer: routine cleanings are preventive care above the gumline, while scaling and root planing (SRP) treats active gum infection below the gumline. Understanding the difference helps you make confident choices for your oral and whole-body health.
What a Routine Cleaning Includes
At a standard visit, we remove plaque and tartar from the visible tooth surfaces and just below the gumline, polish away surface stains, and review home-care tips. For healthy gums, this is the perfect rhythm to maintain your smile and catch small issues early.
When a Deep Cleaning Is Recommended
If we measure deeper pockets around your teeth, see bleeding on probing, or note tartar buildup beneath the gums, that’s a sign of periodontitis. SRP is a therapeutic procedure that disrupts the bacterial colonies beneath the gums and smooths root surfaces so tissues can reattach. We typically treat one or two quadrants per visit with local anesthesia for comfort.
What SRP Feels Like
Your comfort is our priority. Numbing ensures the procedure feels manageable, and you can choose sedation options if anxiety is a concern. Post-treatment, you may feel slight soreness or temperature sensitivity for a day or two—most people return to normal routines immediately.
Benefits of Deep Cleaning
- Reduces bleeding and inflammation
- Decreases pocket depths over time
- Improves breath and daily comfort
- Protects the bone that supports your teeth—your long-term foundation
SRP vs. LANAP or Osseous Surgery
SRP is often the first therapeutic step. If pockets remain deep or if imaging shows specific bone defects, we may recommend osseous surgery or ongoing periodontal maintenance. For selected cases, laser-assisted therapy may also be considered as part of a comprehensive plan.
How Often Should I Come Back?
After SRP, most patients benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months. These appointments remove new tartar, reassess pocket depths, reinforce home-care techniques, and keep your gums in the healthy zone.
Insurance & Costs
Coverage varies by plan; we’ll review your benefits and provide a clear cost outline. Importantly, treating gum disease early typically costs less—and feels easier—than waiting until advanced procedures are needed.
Take the Next Step
If your gums bleed when you brush, or you’ve noticed persistent bad breath, a deep cleaning could be the reset your smile needs. We’ll explain each step, keep you comfortable, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Ready to learn if SRP is right for you? Call Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (310) 473-8770 or Contact Us to schedule your visit in Los Angeles.