What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning – And Why It’s the First Step to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Expert Insights from Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS – Henderson, NV

When you picture a gorgeous, confident smile, you likely imagine bright white teeth, smooth enamel, and even a little cosmetic enhancement. But behind every beautiful smile lies something you may not think about often: healthy gums.



For many people looking to improve their smile—whether through whitening, veneers, or bonding—the first step doesn't start with cosmetic treatments. It starts with gum health; for some, that means undergoing a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.



To help us understand this treatment, why it's necessary, and how it fits into your overall smile journey, we spoke with Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a cosmetic and general dentist based in Henderson, NV, with over 20 years of experience in both preventive and aesthetic dental care.

Gum Disease: The Silent Smile Saboteur

Gum disease is extremely common—affecting nearly half of adults over the age of 30, according to the CDC—but it often flies under the radar. What starts as mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) can quickly escalate to periodontitis, a more serious condition that affects the tissues and bone supporting teeth.



“Gum disease doesn't always hurt, which is why people sometimes ignore the early signs,” explains Dr. Perrone. “But untreated, it can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and even impact overall health.”

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

A deep dental cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a special treatment to remove bacteria, tartar, and plaque from below the gumline. Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of your teeth, this procedure targets the areas where harmful bacteria settle deep in the pockets between your teeth and gums.



“A deep cleaning is designed to stop gum disease in its tracks,” says Dr. Perrone. “We remove the irritants, smooth the root surfaces, and allow the gums to begin healing naturally.”



Depending on the severity of gum disease, the procedure might be done in one or more visits and may involve local anesthetic to ensure comfort.

Why It Matters—Especially Before Cosmetic Treatments

Cosmetic dental treatments like porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or smile makeovers are only as successful as the health of the foundation they're built upon: your gums and bone structure.



“Before we even consider cosmetic enhancements, we need to make sure the gums are healthy,” Dr. Perrone emphasizes. “Trying to place veneers or whiten teeth when there's active gum disease can compromise the results—and your oral health.”



Here's why:



Whitening products can irritate inflamed gums.

Veneers or crowns won't adhere properly if the gums are unstable.

Bonding can fail prematurely if plaque or inflammation is present.

Think of it like renovating a home—you wouldn't install luxury finishes if the foundation were crumbling. The same applies to your smile.

What Happens After a Deep Cleaning?

After scaling and root planing, patients usually notice:



Less gum bleeding

Improved breath

Tighter, healthier gum tissue

Less sensitivity during brushing or flossing

Dr. Perrone recommends a re-evaluation 4–6 weeks post-treatment and places patients on a periodontal maintenance schedule, usually every 3–4 months. This schedule involves regular check-ups and cleanings to monitor and maintain your gum health.



“Gum disease is a chronic condition for many people, so consistent maintenance is key,” she says. “We closely monitor gum health and adjust treatment as needed.”

Your Role in Keeping Gums Healthy

While your dental team plays a big part in managing gum disease, your habits at home matter just as much. Dr. Perrone recommends:



Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush

Flossing once a day—yes, it does help

Using antimicrobial mouth rinses if recommended

Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated

Avoiding tobacco, which significantly increases gum disease risk

“Small daily habits make a big difference,” she says. “Healthy gums are not only possible—they're entirely achievable with the right routine.”

The Big Picture: From Healthy to Beautiful

Once your gums are in great shape, the door opens to various cosmetic treatments that can safely and successfully take your smile to the next level.



“Patients often come in wanting whiter, straighter, more youthful-looking smiles,” says Dr. Perrone. “And that's possible. But we always start with health. Healthy gums make every cosmetic result look better and last longer.”

Final Thoughts

A deep dental cleaning may not sound glamorous, but it's one of the most important steps toward a beautiful, lasting smile. Whether you're looking to improve your health, confidence, or appearance, it all begins with a strong foundation, which means taking care of your gums first.



As Dr. Perrone sums it up:



“Every great smile begins with healthy gums. Deep cleaning is where real transformation starts.”

About Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS

Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a cosmetic and general dentist in Henderson, NV, specializing in smile makeovers, dental implants, periodontal therapy, and facial aesthetics. With more than two decades of experience, she combines advanced techniques with a compassionate, wellness-first approach to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.