Deep Cleaning
Also called: Scaling and root planing
A deep cleaning is performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove the built-up plaque and tartar from your tooth and gum structure. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to treat or prevent gum disease.
What to expect
A deep cleaning is comprised of two parts: scaling and root planing.
- Scaling: the process of removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and from the pocket areas between the teeth and gums.
- Root planing: involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the roots of your teeth with a scaling instrument.
A deep cleaning often requires a minimum of two visits and a potential follow-up to ensure your gums and teeth are becoming healthier and there is no additional pocket depth.
After the procedure
You may experience light sensitivity for a few days. You may be prescribed a mouth rinse to help your gums heal properly. In the following weeks you should notice your gums getting healthier as long as you maintain a daily oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing.
Available Practices
The practices below offer this specialty care. Select a practice that best meets your budget and availability for appointments.
Teaching Practice
Services at this clinic are performed at reduced prices because students are working under the supervision of board-certified dentists on faculty. The educational nature of the clinic requires extra time for appointments and the types of services offered depends on the training needed by students at that time.
Average Cost: 60 - 70% less than private practice
Appointment Time: 3-4 hour appointments
Education: Dental students under the guidance of faculty dentists
Resident Practice
We offer comprehensive dental care performed by dental residents who have already received professional dental degrees and are completing advanced training under the supervision of dental faculty.
Average Cost: Fees average 60% of the cost of private practice
Appointment Time: Slightly longer than private practice
Education: Graduate dentists completing advanced training
Faculty Practice
The Faculty Practice at UT Dentistry is staffed by licensed dentists who are also on faculty at the School of Dentistry. When you receive treatment by dentists from the School of Dentistry, you'll get services and expertise from seasoned professionals who also teach our future dentists. Our office has the feel of a private practice with the resources of a nationally recognized dental school.
Average Cost: Equal to private practice
Appointment Time: Equal to private practice
Education: Faculty dentists