Periodontal measurements
Dr. Lee measures pocket depths, bleeding, gum position, and tooth support and reviews diagnostic imaging when bone assessment is needed.
Deep teeth cleaning in Seattle
Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic periodontal treatment used when plaque and tartar extend into diseased areas around the tooth roots.
Dr. Jaime Lee uses periodontal measurements, gum inflammation, and bone findings to determine whether deep cleaning is indicated instead of a routine preventive cleaning.
Nonsurgical periodontal treatment
Why is deep cleaning used?
Scaling and root planing removes bacterial deposits from root surfaces that cannot be managed by a routine preventive cleaning when periodontitis is present.
The treatment is selected from measured periodontal disease, not simply from how much visible buildup is on the teeth.
- Treat diseased periodontal pockets
- Remove plaque and tartar from root surfaces
- Reduce bacterial deposits below the gumline
- Create a cleaner environment for periodontal healing
What is a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your tooth below the gumline, treating gum disease and helping inflamed gums heal.
Root-surface debridement
Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from root surfaces. This helps reduce the bacterial buildup and inflammation associated with periodontitis.
Reassessment and maintenance
After treatment, Dr. Lee reassesses the periodontal response and establishes ongoing maintenance according to stability.
How do I know if I need a deep cleaning?
- Measure the periodontal condition. Dr. Lee records pocket depths, bleeding, recession, and tooth support and evaluates supporting bone when imaging is indicated.
- Confirm the treatment level. She distinguishes routine preventive cleaning from active periodontal therapy based on the clinical diagnosis.
- Complete scaling and root planing. The diseased areas are cleaned below the gumline and along the root surfaces according to the treatment plan.
- Reassess healing. Dr. Lee evaluates the response after treatment and identifies sites that remain unstable or need additional care.
- Establish maintenance. The ongoing professional-care interval is based on the periodontal condition rather than a standard preventive schedule.
Who needs a deep cleaning?
Scaling and root planing may be recommended for patients with active periodontitis. The treatment is intended to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth roots, reduce pocket depths, and help control inflammation.
Complex periodontal disease or surgical needs may require coordinated care with a periodontist.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Schedule an evaluation for persistent bleeding, swelling, gum recession, bad breath, or changes in tooth support.
Dr. Lee also measures periodontal health during routine exams because treatment decisions should follow the measured condition of the gums and supporting bone.
What affects the cost of deep cleaning?
Cost is based on the extent of periodontal treatment, the number of areas treated, diagnostic requirements, and your dental benefits. PPO plans may classify scaling and root planing differently from routine preventive cleanings.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Periodontal benefits vary by diagnosis, service, and individual plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Who provides your care at Smile Art?
Dr. Jaime Lee uses periodontal measurements and diagnostic findings to separate routine prevention from active periodontal disease treatment and to identify when specialist care is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
How is deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning?
A routine cleaning is preventive care for stable gums. Scaling and root planing treats periodontitis by cleaning diseased areas below the gumline and along root surfaces.
How does Dr. Lee know whether I need deep cleaning?
She uses periodontal pocket measurements, bleeding, gum position, tooth support, and bone findings rather than symptoms alone.
Is scaling and root planing the same as periodontal surgery?
No. Scaling and root planing is nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Surgical treatment is a separate level of care.
Will my gums be checked again after treatment?
Yes. Reassessment shows how the periodontal tissues responded and whether additional treatment or maintenance is needed.
Will I need more frequent cleanings afterward?
Patients with periodontitis often need periodontal maintenance rather than routine preventive cleaning. Dr. Lee sets the interval from the stability of the periodontal findings.
Does insurance cover deep cleaning?
Coverage depends on your specific PPO plan and the service provided. Smile Art can verify your benefits before your scaling and root planing treatment.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.