Gum (periodontal) disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss — and in its early stages it’s usually painless, so many people don’t know they have it. The good news: caught early, it’s very treatable. At Salinas Smiles Dental Group, we treat gum disease with scaling and root planing (often called a “deep cleaning”), local antibiotic therapy when needed, and a maintenance plan that keeps it from coming back.
Key Takeaways
- Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and receding gums are the classic warning signs.
- Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and tartar from below the gumline — a regular cleaning can’t reach it.
- Deep cleaning typically costs $200–$400 per quadrant; many insurance plans cover a portion when gum disease is diagnosed.
- After treatment, periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months protect the result.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums pulling away from teeth (teeth look “longer”)
- Loose teeth or a change in how your bite fits
If any of these sound familiar, don’t wait for pain — book an exam. Gum disease also matters beyond your mouth: research links it to heart disease, diabetes control, and pregnancy complications.
How Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) Works
A routine cleaning polishes above and just below the gumline. When pockets have formed between your gums and teeth, bacteria colonize the root surfaces where brushing can’t reach — that’s what scaling and root planing addresses:
- Periodontal evaluation. We measure pocket depths and review X-rays to map where disease is active.
- Scaling. Using ultrasonic and hand instruments, we remove plaque and hardened tartar from below the gumline. A local anesthetic keeps you comfortable.
- Root planing. We smooth the root surfaces so your gums can reattach and bacteria have a harder time recolonizing.
- Targeted therapy. Where pockets are deep, we may place localized antimicrobials; our dental laser can also assist with bacterial reduction.
- Re-evaluation and maintenance. A few weeks later we re-measure pockets and set your periodontal maintenance schedule — typically every 3–4 months at first.
What Does It Cost?
Scaling and root planing typically runs $200–$400 per quadrant in our area, and treatment is often completed in one or two visits. When gum disease is diagnosed, many insurance plans cover a meaningful portion — we’ll verify your benefits before we begin and go over financing options if you need them.
Visit Us in Salinas
Bleeding gums won’t fix themselves. Call (831) 424-4230 or request an appointment at 1970 N. Main St., Salinas, CA 93906 — serving Salinas, Prunedale, Castroville, Marina, and nearby communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a deep cleaning hurt?
We numb the areas being treated, so the procedure itself is comfortable. Expect some gum tenderness and temperature sensitivity for a few days afterward.
How is deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning maintains healthy gums; scaling and root planing treats active gum disease by cleaning below the gumline where pockets have formed.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis (the early stage) is reversible. Periodontitis can be stopped and managed very successfully, but it requires treatment and ongoing maintenance — that’s why the 3–4 month schedule matters.
Will my gums grow back?
Gum tissue that has receded doesn’t regrow on its own, but treatment stops further loss, and gums often reattach more snugly to clean root surfaces as pockets shrink.
How often will I need cleanings afterward?
Most patients start with periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months. As your gums stabilize, we may be able to extend the interval.
Related services: Dental Exams & Cleanings · Dental Hygiene · Dental Lasers — or request an appointment.
