Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a treatment that is done to remove plaque and calculus and then smoothing of the roots. A scaling and root planing involves removing heavy buildup and preventing the progression of gum disease. Gum disease is a lot more common than you might think. The disease causes pocketing around each tooth and can affect both the gums and the underlying bone. To prevent the disease from getting worse, we recommend a deep cleaning known as a scaling and root planing.