Deep Cleanings & Scaling and Root Planing in Durham, NC

Deep cleanings, also called scaling and root planing, are a foundational periodontal treatment offered at Eno Valley Dental in Durham, NC. When plaque and tartar build up below the gumline, a standard cleaning is not enough. Deep cleaning targets bacteria and deposits in periodontal pockets to help restore gum health and prevent further damage. This page explains what scaling and root planing involves, who may need it, what to expect, and how to care for your gums afterward.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure that treats gum disease in its early to moderate stages. It goes beyond a routine prophylaxis by reaching below the gumline to remove hardened tartar (calculus) and bacterial toxins from the root surfaces of teeth.

• Scaling removes plaque and calculus from the tooth surface and beneath the gumline using specialized instruments.
• Root planing smooths rough areas on the tooth roots where bacteria tend to collect, making it harder for deposits to reattach.

Together, these steps reduce inflammation, allow the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth, and shrink periodontal pockets over time.

Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning

• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing
• Gums pulling away from the teeth (recession)
• Periodontal pocket depths greater than 3 millimeters
• Visible tartar buildup below the gumline on dental X-rays

Dr. Wenshley R. Henry and the team at Eno Valley Dental use periodontal charting and digital imaging to determine whether scaling and root planing is appropriate for your situation.

Benefits of Deep Cleanings

• Halts the progression of gum disease before it leads to tooth loss
• Reduces gum inflammation, bleeding, and pocket depth
• Removes bacteria and toxins that contribute to bone loss
• Creates a clean surface for gum tissue to heal and reattach
• Supports overall oral and systemic health

What to Expect During Treatment

Scaling and root planing is typically completed in one or two visits depending on the extent of buildup. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. dentist uses a combination of ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers to carefully clean each quadrant of the mouth.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Mild soreness and sensitivity are common for a few days afterward. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm salt water rinses can help during the healing period.

Aftercare and Maintenance

• Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily
• Floss daily to keep plaque from reforming below the gumline
• Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended
• Attend follow-up visits to monitor pocket depths and healing
• Schedule periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months as advised

Consistent home care and regular maintenance visits are key to preventing gum disease from returning after scaling and root planing.

Have questions about deep cleanings in Durham, NC? Call 919-471-2422 to speak with the team at Eno Valley Dental, or schedule a visit with Dr. Wenshley R. Henry to review your gum health.