Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) in Atlanta
What is scaling and root planing?
When a patient hasn’t had a professional dental cleaning in a long time, hardened plaque (tartar) can build up below the gumline, and inflammation or bone loss may develop between the teeth. In these cases, a routine dental cleaning is often not enough to restore gum health.
Scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as a deep cleaning, is a more thorough, non-surgical procedure that focuses on removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gums and smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth. This allows the gums to heal and reattach more comfortably around the teeth, helping slow or stop the progression of gum disease.
We understand that deep cleanings are sometimes recommended too aggressively or presented as a routine upsell at other dental offices. That is not how we practice at Brookhaven Family Dentistry. Our Chamblee and Brookhaven dental team follows a conservative, minimally invasive dental philosophy, which means we only recommend scaling and root planing when we believe it is truly needed to protect your gums, support your teeth, and improve your long-term oral health.
Do you really need a deep cleaning?
Deep cleanings, also called scaling and root planing, are sometimes over recommended, so we look at four things before suggesting one: your gum measurements, whether your gums bleed, how much tartar has built up under the gums, and whether your x-rays show bone loss. A healthy pocket measures about 2 to 3 mm, while 5 mm and deeper is a concern, though pressing the probe too hard can make a shallow pocket read as a deep one. If none of those signs are present, we will not recommend the procedure. If another office has told you that you need one, ask to see the measurements and the x-rays behind the recommendation.
The difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning
Plaque is the soft buildup you can brush and floss away. Left on the teeth too long it calcifies into tartar, which is bonded to the tooth and cannot be brushed off, and over time tartar dissolves the bone that holds your teeth in place. A regular cleaning takes about 35 to 45 minutes and removes plaque plus any light tartar. A deep cleaning is for heavy tartar or existing bone loss, and is usually split across two visits with half the mouth numbed each time, because the tartar has to be scraped from well below the gum line.
Common questions
What to expect during scaling & root planing
Deep cleaning of tooth roots below the gumline
Removal of bacteria, tartar, and plaque that cause inflammation
Treatment typically divided into two visits (one side of the mouth per visit)
Local anesthetic used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure
Our goal is to improve gum health while keeping the experience as gentle and stress-free as possible.
How long does scaling & root planing take?
Approximately 90 minutes per visit
Usually completed over two appointments
How much does scaling & root planing cost?
Usually around $200–$300 per visit
Many dental insurance plans partially cover scaling and root planing, depending on your benefits
We always review your insurance and provide clear cost estimates before treatment begins.
Does scaling & root planing hurt?
No, you will be numb. Local anesthetic is used so you don’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild tenderness or sensitivity afterward is possible but typically short lived and manageable with simple at home care.
Why scaling & root planing is important
Helps control gum disease before it worsens
Reduces inflammation, bleeding, and infection
Protects bone and supporting structures around the teeth
May help prevent tooth loss and more invasive treatments
Been told you need a deep cleaning?
Get in Touch
Curious about a specific procedure? Financial inquiries?
Give us a call at (770) 451-0611