SCALING & ROOT PLANING

When plaque and tartar build up beneath the gumline, a regular dental cleaning may not be enough to protect your teeth and gums. At Orchid Dental in Attleboro, MA, we provide professional deep cleaning treatments — also known as scaling and root planing — to stop gum disease in its tracks, preserve your natural teeth, and support long-term oral health. This preventive approach helps restore your gum tissue and reduces the risk of serious dental problems down the road.



WHAT IS A DEEP CLEANING?

Deep cleaning is a non-surgical periodontal treatment designed to thoroughly clean below the gumline, where regular brushing and flossing can not reach. Over time, bacteria, plaque, and tartar can build up in these areas, causing inflammation, infection, and even bone loss if left untreated. Scaling and root planing remove this harmful buildup and smooth the root surfaces, making it easier for the gums to reattach and heal properly.

There are two main parts to this procedure:

Scaling – removes hardened plaque (tartar) from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline.

Root Planing – smooths the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach and discourage future buildup.

DO I NEED A DEEP CLEANING?

Deep cleaning is often recommended if you have:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession or pockets greater than 4mm deep
• Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)

During your visit to Orchid Dental, our experienced team will carefully assess your gum health through a periodontal exam and digital imaging. If scaling and root planing is needed, we’ll walk you through every step and customize the treatment to your needs.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT

We prioritize your comfort and make the experience as easy and stress-free as possible. Deep cleaning is usually completed in two separate visits — each focused on one side of the mouth — to ensure thorough care.

A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the treatment area, so you can relax without discomfort. The scaling and root planing procedure may take a little longer than a routine cleaning, but it’s well worth the investment in your oral health.

After treatment, it's normal to feel some tenderness or sensitivity for a few days. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and may recommend a follow-up cleaning or periodontal maintenance visit to track your progress and keep your gums healthy.

BENEFITS OF SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

• Stops the progression of gum disease
• Reduces inflammation and bleeding
• Helps prevent tooth loss
• Improves breath and overall oral health
• Can reduce systemic health risks linked to gum disease

BENEFITS OF SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

At Orchid Dental, you’re more than just a patient — you’re part of our dental family. We offer a warm, welcoming environment and take a gentle, individualized approach to periodontal care. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and proven techniques to ensure your treatment is effective and comfortable. Most importantly, we believe in educating and empowering you to maintain a healthier smile for life.

If you’ve been told you may need a deep cleaning, or if you’re experiencing gum issues, schedule a consultation with our Attleboro dental team today. We’re here to help you protect your smile and feel confident again.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DEEP CLEANING