
Periodontal Care for Gum Health and Long-Term Tooth Support
Peoria Dental Care provides deep teeth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, when gum health needs more than a routine cleaning.
Located on N Rockwood Dr in Peoria, our office welcomes patients from Peoria, Peoria Heights, Dunlap, East Peoria, Morton, Washington, Bartonville, and nearby Central Illinois communities.
A routine cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and stains above the gumline and around the teeth. A deep cleaning is different. It is recommended when bacteria and buildup have moved deeper below the gumline and are contributing to gum inflammation or periodontal disease.
Scaling and root planing helps clean the tooth and root surfaces so the gums have a better chance to heal and stabilize. In some cases, periodontal care may also include saliva testing, antibacterial rinses, oral antibiotics, topical rinses placed directly into gum pockets, and more frequent maintenance cleanings.
Signs a Deep Cleaning May Be Needed
- Bleeding, swollen, or tender gums
- Deep periodontal pockets around the teeth
- Visible tartar buildup or buildup below the gumline
- Gum recession or changes in gum support
- Persistent bad breath or signs of gum infection
How Scaling and Root Planing Helps
During a deep cleaning, the dental team carefully removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces where bacteria collect. The goal is to reduce bacterial irritation, support healing, and help prevent gum disease from progressing.
Part of a Larger Periodontal Care Plan
Deep cleaning is often one step in periodontal care. Some patients need follow-up visits, periodontal maintenance, antimicrobial support, or additional gum treatment depending on the severity of the disease.
Schedule a Gum Health Evaluation in Peoria
If your gums bleed, feel tender, or have not been evaluated recently, Peoria Dental Care can help determine whether a routine cleaning, deep cleaning, or broader periodontal care plan is appropriate.
Questions Patients Often Ask
Is deep cleaning the same as a regular cleaning?
No. A deep cleaning reaches below the gumline and is used when gum disease or deeper buildup is present.
Will I need maintenance after a deep cleaning?
Many patients with periodontal disease need ongoing periodontal maintenance to help keep bacteria and inflammation under control.








