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Deep Cleaning (SRP) In Lakeway, TX
Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. suffer from some form of gum disease—a staggering statistic that continues to rise each year. Staying proactive about your oral health is essential, as advanced gum disease can damage your jawbone and even contribute to serious, life-threatening health conditions.
At Lakeway Dental Associates, we specialize in deep periodontal cleanings to help eliminate harmful bacteria and restore the health of your teeth and gums. Located in Lakeway, TX, our experienced team is committed to helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile. In addition to periodontal care, we also offer a full range of cosmetic dental services to meet all your oral health needs.
Periodontal Deep Cleaning in Lakeway, TX
What Is Deep Periodontal Cleaning?
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, your general dentist may recommend against a routine cleaning. That’s because standard cleanings can unintentionally push harmful bacteria deeper into the gum pockets—where periodontal disease develops.
In these cases, a deep cleaning—also known as scaling and root planing—is often the best course of action. Unlike a regular cleaning, which focuses on surface-level plaque and tartar, a deep cleaning targets the areas beneath the gum line, where bacteria tend to accumulate and cause damage.
During the procedure, a periodontist will carefully clean out deep gum pockets by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line. As tartar builds up, it causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, creating even deeper pockets that harbor more bacteria. Deep cleaning helps halt this cycle.
The process involves two key steps: scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gums; and root planing, which smooths the tooth roots to discourage further bacterial buildup and help the gums reattach to the teeth.
The primary goal of deep cleaning is to eliminate infection and create a healthier environment where your gums can begin to heal. By removing harmful bacteria and reducing inflammation, this treatment plays a vital role in restoring your oral health and preventing further progression of gum disease.
Benefits of Getting a Periodontal Deep Cleaning
There are several clear signs that may indicate the need for a deep dental cleaning. One of the most common is bleeding when brushing or flossing—often an early sign of gum disease.
If you’re experiencing this or other symptoms, a visit to your general dentist can help determine whether you have periodontal disease. One telltale sign is gum recession, which may make your teeth appear longer than before. Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth and require immediate attention from a periodontist.
To diagnose gum disease, dentists use a painless probing test to measure the depth of your gum pockets. Shallow pockets may indicate early-stage gum disease, which your general dentist can often manage. However, deeper pockets or more advanced cases will typically require a referral to a periodontist for specialized care.
The good news? Gum disease is largely preventable. Practicing the oral hygiene habits you learned early on—brushing twice daily, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and attending regular dental checkups—can go a long way in keeping your gums healthy and avoiding the need for deep cleaning treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a deep dental cleaning (SRP)?
How is a deep cleaning different from a regular dental cleaning?
Is a deep cleaning painful?
How long does the deep cleaning process take?
Most people should have a professional dental cleaning every six months. However, patients with gum disease or other oral health concerns may need cleanings every 3–4 months. Your dentist will recommend the best schedule based on your needs.
During a cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, polishes the surfaces, and may apply fluoride for added protection. Your gums and mouth will also be evaluated for any signs of issues like gingivitis or oral cancer.
Teeth cleaning is generally painless. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, especially if there’s significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation. Let your hygienist know if you feel discomfort—they can adjust the treatment accordingly.
Even with excellent at-home care, plaque and tartar can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings remove this buildup to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath—helping maintain long-term oral health.
What should I do after a deep cleaning?
While a cleaning doesn’t change the natural color of your teeth, it removes surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco—often leaving your smile noticeably brighter and cleaner.
