Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): What to Expect

Why deep cleaning is different

A regular hygiene visit cleans above the gum line and slightly below. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing — SRP) cleans the root surfaces deep in the gum pocket where standard instruments can't reach.

When it's needed

• Pocket depths of 4mm or more on probing
• Bleeding on probing across multiple areas
• X-ray evidence of bone loss
• Moderate to severe tartar accumulation below the gumline

The procedure

Typically 2 visits, 60–90 min each

Visit 1: one half of the mouth (upper + lower on one side) under local anaesthetic. Visit 2: the other half, 1–2 weeks later.

Some clinics do full-mouth SRP in a single extended visit; both approaches are acceptable.

What happens

1. Local anaesthetic to numb the area
2. Ultrasonic and hand instruments used below the gum line to remove tartar and bacterial biofilm from root surfaces
3. Root surfaces "planed" smooth so plaque can't easily re-adhere
4. Antibacterial irrigation of pockets
5. Sometimes local antibiotic gel or chips placed in pockets

What to expect afterwards

• Mild soreness 1–3 days
• Gums may feel tighter against teeth within 1–2 weeks as inflammation resolves
• Temporary tooth sensitivity as newly-exposed root surfaces adjust
• Slight bleeding when brushing for a few days

Follow-up

• 6-week re-evaluation to measure pocket-depth reduction
• Frequent maintenance visits (every 3 months) for 1–2 years
• Home care review — flossing, electric brush, water flosser

Home care changes

After deep cleaning, your home care must upgrade:

• Electric toothbrush on sensitive mode
• Daily interdental brushes or water flosser
• Fluoride rinse nightly
• No smoking

Cost in Dubai

• Per quadrant: AED 600–1,200
• Full mouth: AED 1,500–3,500
• With local antibiotic gel: add AED 800–1,500 per site

Does it replace surgery?

Non-surgical deep cleaning resolves most moderate periodontitis. About 20–30% of severe cases need subsequent surgical access to deeper pockets. Your dentist will re-evaluate at 6 weeks and let you know.

Why 3-month maintenance matters

After deep cleaning, the bacterial population in deep pockets can recolonise within 10–12 weeks. Three-month visits break this cycle. Skipping to six-month visits is the most common reason deep cleanings "fail."

Practical decision guide

Prevention is usually less expensive and less invasive than repair. The highest-value hygiene plan is specific to your risk: gum disease, dry mouth, braces, implants, restorations, diet, and medical conditions all change the routine.

Check this first

• Bleeding points, plaque score, tartar location, gum pocket depth, dry-mouth symptoms, diet frequency, and home-care tools.
• Whether floss, interdental brushes, water flosser, fluoride rinse, tongue cleaning, or prescription toothpaste fits your risk.
• How often your gums need professional maintenance rather than assuming every patient fits a six-month schedule.

When to book sooner

• Bleeding continues after two weeks of consistent home care.
• You have bad breath, gum swelling, loose teeth, recession, implant bleeding, or sensitivity at the gumline.
• Dry mouth is persistent or linked to medication changes.

Questions to ask at the appointment

• Which exact areas am I missing when I brush or clean between teeth?
• Should I use floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser for my mouth?
• Do I need fluoride varnish, prescription toothpaste, or shorter hygiene intervals?

Dubai patient note

For Dubai patients with busy schedules, ask for a risk-based recall plan: three, four, or six months. The right interval is based on bleeding, tartar, gum pocketing, implants, braces, and dry mouth.

References

• American Academy of Periodontology
• Cochrane Review — SRP outcomes