Procedures
Scaling and root planing
Also called SRP, deep cleaning
A deeper cleaning below the gum line that removes buildup and smooths roots to treat gum disease.
Scaling and root planing is the treatment for patients whose gum disease has gone past a regular cleaning. The hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces under the gums, then smooths the root surfaces so the gum tissue can heal and tighten against them. It is often done one section of the mouth at a time with numbing. Patients often call it a deep cleaning, which can confuse them about why insurance treats it differently.
Example at the front desk
Her gum measurements need scaling and root planing, so I scheduled two visits, one for each side of the mouth.