Deep Scaling vs Normal Cleaning: What Is Root Planing?

Routine Scaling: Targets plaque, coffee/tea stains, and superficial calculus sitting above the gumline on the visible crown surfaces. It is preventive and recommended every 6 months for healthy gums.

Deep Scaling & Root Planing (SRP): A therapeutic periodontal intervention targeting bacteria and hardened calculus hidden deep beneath the gumline inside periodontal pockets (depths exceeding 4mm). The rough root surfaces are smoothed (planed) so the gum tissue can heal and re-anchor securely onto the tooth root.

No. Deep cleaning is performed under localized anesthetic numbing gel or gentle local anesthesia. Patients remain completely comfortable throughout the procedure. We use modern micro-ultrasonic tips with warm antimicrobial irrigation that gently dislodge calculus without scraping sensitive dentin.

Mild sensitivity to temperature is normal for 48 hours as inflamed gums tighten and settle around clean roots. Within 2 to 4 weeks, bleeding stops, gum pockets shrink, and gum firmness is restored.