Scaling & Root Planing

Deep Cleaning to Stop Gum Disease Before It Gets Worse

Gum Disease Is Common — But It’s Also Treatable

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, or your dentist has mentioned early signs of gum disease, you may be a candidate for scaling and root planing — also known as a “deep cleaning.”

At Vivid Dental of Raleigh, we provide this advanced cleaning treatment to remove the bacteria and buildup below the gumline that regular cleanings can’t reach. The goal? Stop gum disease in its tracks, prevent tooth loss, and restore your oral health — without surgery.

What Is Scaling & Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal procedure that treats gingivitis and mild to moderate periodontitis. It involves two key steps:

By eliminating the source of inflammation, this procedure reduces pocket depth, halts gum recession, and protects the bone that supports your teeth.

Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning

You may be a candidate for scaling and root planing if you experience:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

Red, swollen, or tender gums

Persistent bad breath

Receding gums or teeth that appear longer

Visible tartar buildup near the gumline

Deep “pockets” between your teeth and gums

Early bone loss seen on dental x-rays

We use digital imaging and periodontal charting to assess your gum health and determine if deep cleaning is the right next step.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Scaling and root planing is typically done in one or two visits and may be performed with a local anesthetic for comfort. Here’s how it works:

Most patients experience significant improvement in gum health within weeks of treatment.

Why Choose Vivid Dental of Raleigh?

Deep cleanings performed by experienced hygienists and dentists

Modern technology for accurate diagnosis and gentle treatment

Compassionate care and no-pressure education

Medicaid, VA, and major insurance plans accepted

Spanish- and English-speaking team for clear communication

Ongoing support to keep your gums healthy for the long term

We don’t just treat gum disease — we help you prevent it from coming back.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

You may notice mild soreness or sensitivity after treatment, which typically resolves in a few days. To support healing:

Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush

Rinse with warm salt water or prescribed solutions

Avoid smoking or tobacco

Follow up with Periodontal Maintenance appointments as recommended

We’ll schedule a re-evaluation to measure your healing and determine next steps — whether that’s maintenance, additional treatment, or surgical referral (in advanced cases).

You’re Not Too Late. You’re Right on Time.

If it’s been years since your last visit… if you’ve been living in pain… if you’ve been putting off care because you’re afraid of what we’ll find — we see you. And we’re here to walk with you through it all.

This is the place where you restart your oral health journey with a team that sees your worth, not your worries.

Scaling & Root Planing

Gum Disease Is Common — But It’s Also Treatable

What Is Scaling & Root Planing?

Scaling

Root Planing

Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning

What to Expect During the Procedure

Comprehensive Exam

Deep Cleaning Process

Gum Irrigation (if needed)

Home Care Guidance

Why Choose Vivid Dental of Raleigh?

Aftercare and Follow-Up