Periodontal Deep Cleanings in Alpharetta, GA

When gum disease advances beyond surface-level plaque, periodontal deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes bacteria below the gumline, stops infection, and restores gum health.

What Is Periodontal Deep Cleaning?

Also called scaling and root planing (SRP), periodontal deep cleaning is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. It goes beyond regular cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline and smooth root surfaces to prevent future buildup.

Think of it as a "deep clean" for your gums—targeting infection at its source before it causes irreversible damage.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

Symptoms: Red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing

Treatment: Professional cleaning + improved home care

Reversible: Yes! Caught early, gingivitis can be completely reversed.

Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

Symptoms: Receding gums, pockets forming, bone loss, loose teeth

Treatment: Deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) required

Reversible: Damage can be stopped but not reversed. Early treatment prevents tooth loss.

Advanced Periodontitis (Severe)

Symptoms: Significant bone loss, very loose teeth, pus, severe infection

Treatment: Deep cleaning + possible surgery or extractions

Reversible: Tooth loss likely without aggressive treatment.

Signs You Need Deep Cleaning

Bleeding Gums: Gums bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating
Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis that doesn't improve with brushing
Receding Gums: Teeth appear longer, roots becoming exposed
Swollen, Red Gums: Inflamed tissue that's tender to touch
Gum Pockets: Dentist measures pockets deeper than 4mm
Loose Teeth: Teeth feel mobile or shift position
Pus Between Teeth: Infection visible at gumline
Pain When Chewing: Discomfort or sensitivity when eating

The Deep Cleaning Process

1
Examination & Measurement: Probe gum pockets around each tooth. Healthy: 1-3mm. Gingivitis: 4-5mm. Periodontitis: 6mm+.
2
Anesthesia: Local numbing ensures comfort. You'll feel pressure but no pain during procedure.
3
Scaling: Remove plaque and tartar from above and below gumline using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments.
4
Root Planing: Smooth rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria collect. Creates smooth surface that discourages future buildup.
5
Antimicrobial Treatment: Apply antibiotic gel or rinse to kill remaining bacteria and promote healing.
6
Post-Treatment Instructions: Receive detailed home care guidance and schedule follow-up visit.

Treatment Time: 1-2 hours per appointment. Severe cases may require multiple visits (treating one quadrant at a time).

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning

Feature	Regular Cleaning	Deep Cleaning
Purpose	Prevention	Treatment
Area Cleaned	Above gumline	Below gumline
Anesthesia	Not needed	Required
Frequency	Every 6 months	As needed
Duration	30-60 minutes	1-2 hours per visit
Cost	$75-$200	$500-$1,500

After Deep Cleaning: What to Expect

First 24-48 Hours:

Sensitivity: Teeth may be sensitive to hot/cold for few days (normal!)
Sore Gums: Mild tenderness or swelling as gums heal
Bleeding: Minor bleeding when brushing first few days
Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods for 24 hours
Pain Management: OTC pain relievers as needed

First Week:

Gentle Brushing: Use soft-bristle brush, gentle technique
Saltwater Rinses: Rinse 2-3 times daily to promote healing
Avoid Irritants: No smoking, alcohol, or spicy foods
Gradual Improvement: Sensitivity and soreness decrease daily

Maintaining Results

Deep cleaning stops gum disease, but maintaining results requires commitment:

Brush Twice Daily: 2 minutes, soft-bristle brush, fluoride toothpaste
Floss Daily: Remove plaque between teeth where brush can't reach
Use Antimicrobial Rinse: Prescription or OTC mouthwash as directed
Regular Cleanings: Every 3-4 months (more frequent than standard 6 months)
Don't Smoke: Smoking dramatically increases gum disease risk
Healthy Diet: Limit sugar, eat vitamin C-rich foods
Manage Health Conditions: Control diabetes, stress

Cost & Insurance Coverage

Investment:

One Quadrant: $150-$300
Two Quadrants (Half Mouth): $300-$600
Full Mouth (All 4 Quadrants): $500-$1,500
Antibiotic Treatment (if needed): $50-$150

Insurance Coverage: Most plans cover 50-80% of deep cleaning costs when medically necessary (pocket depth 5mm+).

Financing Options:

• CareCredit® - 0% interest available
• Payment plans to spread cost
• FSA/HSA eligible

What If I Don't Get Treatment?

Untreated gum disease progressively worsens:

Bone Loss: Jawbone deteriorates, teeth become loose
Tooth Loss: Teeth fall out or require extraction
Systemic Health Issues: Linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke
More Expensive Treatment: Surgery or implants cost far more than deep cleaning
Chronic Pain: Persistent discomfort and infection

The good news: Deep cleaning can stop progression and save your teeth!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does deep cleaning hurt?

No! Local anesthesia numbs the area completely. You'll feel pressure but no pain. Mild soreness for 1-3 days after is normal.

How long does deep cleaning take?

1-2 hours per appointment. Severe cases may require 2-4 visits (treating one quadrant at a time for comfort).

Will my gums grow back after deep cleaning?

Gum tissue can reattach to teeth and pockets can shrink, but lost bone doesn't regenerate. Early treatment prevents further loss.

How often do I need deep cleaning?

Usually once. After initial treatment, maintain with regular cleanings every 3-4 months. Some patients need repeat treatment if disease returns.

Can I eat after deep cleaning?

Wait until numbness wears off (2-3 hours). Stick to soft foods for 24 hours. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods initially.

Schedule Your Deep Cleaning

Don't let gum disease progress. Call (770) 520-4013 or book online for a periodontal evaluation and deep cleaning consultation.