When gum disease has passed the first stages of development (also known as gingivitis), professional intervention is necessary to stop the infection from spreading. This deep
cleaning process includes
scaling and root planing, a two-part process designed to promote healing of the gums and reduce the risk of reinfection. Scaling works to remove plaque and tartar from areas above and beneath the gum line, while root planing works to smooth out the tooth roots so they can better reattach to the gums.