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About the Procedure

When periodontal disease is present, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning of the teeth and gums by a periodontist. It is important to remove bacteria that cause the disease and the food particles that help bacteria to proliferate. Local anesthesia is often used during scaling and root planing to facilitate the patient's comfort during the procedure.

About the Division of Dentistry

The Massachusetts General Hospital Division of Dentistry is a hospital-based group practice containing multiple dental specialists under one roof. Like traditional dental practices, we are open to the public and provide all aspects of preventive, therapeutic and restorative dental care.