At Nova Dental Care in Mundelein, IL, we take gum health seriously.
A deep dental cleaning—also known as scaling and root planing (SRP)—is a specialized treatment designed to remove harmful bacteria and buildup beneath the gum line, where regular cleanings can’t reach.
This advanced procedure helps restore gum health, prevent infection, and protect the foundation of your smile.
A deep cleaning focuses on thoroughly eliminating plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins that collect below the gums and along the roots of your teeth.
It’s an essential therapy for patients showing signs of periodontal (gum) disease, or for those who haven’t had a professional cleaning in several years.
Depending on your individual needs, scaling and root planing may be completed in one to four visits—each session focusing on a specific area or quadrant of your mouth for optimal precision and comfort.
Before treatment, our team will carefully review your dental and medical history to ensure your comfort and safety. We use a local anesthetic to numb the area, making your visit completely comfortable and pain-free. For patients with dental anxiety, additional comfort options can be discussed to make the experience even more relaxing.
Once the area is numb, your hygienist will use fine instruments to gently and precisely remove hardened tartar and bacterial buildup from below the gum line (scaling).
Next, the root surfaces are smoothed (root planing) to help gums reattach more firmly and prevent bacteria from recolonizing.
For deeper pockets or difficult-to-reach areas, we may use an ultrasonic scaler—a gentle, vibrating tool that sprays water and antibacterial rinses to flush out debris and infection-causing bacteria. If we detect any localized infection, antibiotic medication may be placed into the gum pockets to aid healing and reduce inflammation.
After your procedure, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit in 6 to 8 weeks to assess your gum healing and monitor your progress.
It’s normal for your gums to feel slightly tender or sensitive for a few days.
Rinsing with warm salt water, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and taking over-the-counter pain medication (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help ease any mild discomfort.
Once your gums have healed, we recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months to control bacteria and prevent gum disease from returning.
When plaque and tartar accumulate below the gum line, they create deep pockets that trap bacteria. This leads to chronic inflammation, bone loss, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Scaling and root planing removes these irritants, allowing your gums to heal naturally and reattach to your teeth—protecting both your bone structure and long-term oral health.
Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t reach. This helps prevent
cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. At Nova Dental Care in Mundelein, we recommend professional
cleanings every six months to keep your smile healthy and bright. Preventive care is the easiest way to
avoid bigger dental problems later on.
During your cleaning, our hygienist will gently remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and floss
to remove any remaining buildup. We also check your gums and may take X-rays if needed. It’s a simple,
comfortable process that leaves your mouth feeling fresh and smooth.
Most cleanings are completely painless. If you have sensitive teeth or tender gums, we’ll use extra-
gentle techniques to keep you comfortable. Our Mundelein dental team makes sure every visit feels easy
and relaxed — many patients even say it’s refreshing!
Most people benefit from a cleaning every six months, but some patients — especially those with gum
issues or braces — may need to come in more often. We’ll create a personalized schedule that fits your
needs and keeps your smile in top shape.
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. If
you’re prone to buildup, consider using a water flosser or mouth rinse recommended by our team. And
don’t skip your regular checkups — prevention is key!
Because we make every visit personal and comfortable. Our hygienists are known for their gentle touch and friendly care, and our office feels welcoming from the moment you walk in. Patients from
Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, and across Lake County trust us to keep their smiles clean,
healthy, and confident.
Our philosophy for dentistry is simple and straightforward. We aim to provide care that is in your best interest. This means we are transparent and non judgemental, kind and empathetic. We have multiple specialists in house as we feel that this is the best way to provide comprehensive care to our patients.
Our office is relaxing and spa-like because let’s face it, no one loves going to the dentist. We’re trying to change that by providing a soothing environment for oral care.
Dr. Omari
Founder, General Dentist