Deep Cleaning, medically known as Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), is a non-surgical procedure essential for treating active Periodontal Disease (gum disease). This specialized cleaning is required when standard preventive cleanings are insufficient due to the presence of hard deposits (calculus/tartar) and bacteria below the gum line. At Prime Smile Dental, SRP is performed to meticulously remove these deep irritants, halt the progression of infection, and give your gums the chance to heal and reattach to the tooth root surface, thereby preserving your supporting bone structure.
Deep cleaning (SRP) differs significantly from a routine dental cleaning. It is performed in focused sections, typically over two appointments, and requires anesthesia because the instruments reach deep under the gums to the tooth root surface.
The procedure involves two main components:
Following successful SRP, patients typically transition to a customized, more frequent schedule called Periodontal Maintenance to manage the chronic disease long-term.
The core benefit is stopping the active infection and preventing the destruction of the underlying jawbone, thereby preserving the stability of your teeth.
Eliminates the bacterial toxins and calculus that cause the gums to be chronically swollen, red, and prone to bleeding.
Encourages gum tissue to heal and re-adhere tightly to the clean root surfaces, reducing the depth of the periodontal pockets where harmful bacteria reside.
Removes the large colonies of disease-causing bacteria trapped deep under the gums, which are the main cause of chronic halitosis (bad breath).
We ensure the procedure is thorough while maintaining patient comfort:
Step 1Diagnosis and Anesthesia
Gum pocket depths are measured (pockets $\ge 4\text{ mm}$ usually indicate the need for SRP). Local anesthesia is administered to numb the gums and tooth roots, ensuring a completely pain-free process.
Step 2Scaling (Debridement)
The dental hygienist or dentist uses specialized instruments (manual scalers and ultrasonic instruments) to remove all hard and soft deposits from the visible tooth surface and deep down onto the root.
Step 3Root Planing (Smoothing)
The tooth roots are carefully planed to create a clean, smooth surface that inhibits bacterial recolonization and promotes gum reattachment.
Step 4Localized Antibiotic (If Necessary)
In certain areas with very deep pockets, a topical antibiotic may be applied directly into the pocket to kill lingering bacteria.
Step 5Follow-up and Maintenance Plan
A follow-up appointment is scheduled to check healing, and a Periodontal Maintenance schedule (usually every 3–4 months) is established for long-term control.
SRP is the necessary treatment for patients who have progressed beyond simple gingivitis to active periodontitis, evidenced by:
Gum measurements of $4\text{ mm}$ or greater, which indicate the detachment of gum tissue from the tooth.
Imaging showing signs of reduced bone height supporting the teeth.
Gums that remain swollen, red, and bleed easily despite attempts at standard brushing and flossing.
Heavy buildup of hardened tartar that is unreachable during a routine cleaning appointment.
The cost of deep cleaning in Aurora (also known as scaling and root planing) depends on the severity of gum inflammation, how many areas of the mouth require treatment, and whether the cleaning is completed over one or multiple visits. Pricing can vary based on factors such as gum pocket depth, buildup below the gumline, and whether follow-up periodontal maintenance is recommended afterward.
At Prime Smile Dental in Aurora, Ontario, we assess your gum health first and explain whether deep cleaning is needed or if a routine cleaning is appropriate. Before treatment begins, we provide a clear plan and an estimate. Our team can also help review your insurance or CDCP information and explain expected costs whenever possible.
The cost of deep cleaning in Aurora (also known as scaling and root planing) depends on the severity of gum inflammation, how many areas of the mouth require treatment, and whether the cleaning is completed over one or multiple visits. Pricing can vary based on factors such as gum pocket depth, buildup below the gumline, and whether follow-up periodontal maintenance is recommended afterward.
At Prime Smile Dental in Aurora, Ontario, we assess your gum health first and explain whether deep cleaning is needed or if a routine cleaning is appropriate. Before treatment begins, we provide a clear plan and an estimate. Our team can also help review your insurance or CDCP information and explain expected costs whenever possible.
Choosing a dental clinic is about more than services, it’s about feeling comfortable, informed, and confident in your care. At Prime Smile Dental in Aurora, we focus on clear communication, a calm environment, and consistent clinical standards for every patient.
We take time to listen to your concerns, explain findings in plain language, and walk you through treatment options so you can make informed decisions.
We accept CDCP and work with most dental insurance plans. Our team can help you understand coverage, billing, and expected costs before treatment whenever possible.
From a welcoming atmosphere to a gentle approach, our team works to make appointments feel calm and manageable—especially for patients who feel anxious about dental visits.
We use updated tools and thorough assessments to support accurate diagnosis and thoughtful treatment planning, with your long-term oral health in mind.
No. A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) cleans teeth above the gums. A deep cleaning (SRP) is a therapeutic, surgical procedure that cleans deep below the gum line and on the tooth roots to treat active gum disease.
It is common to experience minor gum tenderness or slight bleeding for a day or two after the procedure, but this indicates healing. Consistent plaque removal at home after the SRP will stop the chronic bleeding caused by the infection.
Since the cleaning instruments must reach the sensitive root surfaces deep below the gums, local anesthesia is used to numb the gums and roots, ensuring the procedure is performed comfortably and thoroughly.
Yes. Once diagnosed with periodontitis, you will typically need to transition from biannual cleanings to Periodontal Maintenance every 3 to 4 months for life. This frequent cleaning schedule is essential to control the chronic nature of the infection and prevent bone loss.
If you’re experiencing bleeding gums or have been told you may need periodontal care, book a deep cleaning consultation at Prime Smile Dental in Aurora. Call the clinic or request an appointment online, and our team will help you schedule an appropriate visit.
