Deep Cleaning (SRP) in Colombia: When You Actually Need It
Scaling and root planing is therapeutic treatment for periodontal disease — not routine cleaning. Here's when it's actually indicated and typical 2026 pricing.
Deep cleaning — technically "scaling and root planing" (SRP) — is the standard therapeutic treatment for periodontal disease. It's not an upsell of regular cleaning; it's a different procedure with different indications, different costs, and different outcomes.
When SRP is actually needed
SRP is indicated when there's evidence of:
- Periodontal pockets deeper than 4mm (measured at exam)
- Bone loss visible on x-rays
- Bleeding on probing indicating active inflammation
- Tartar accumulation below the gum line
SRP is NOT indicated for:
- Healthy gums with routine tartar
- Cosmetic reasons alone
- "Just because it's been a while"
Some dental practices recommend deep cleaning routinely regardless of gum health — the higher fee and required follow-up create ongoing revenue. If your gums are healthy (pocket depths under 4mm, no bleeding, no bone loss), you don't need SRP. Get a second opinion if a routine visit is upgraded to deep cleaning without clear clinical indications.
What actually happens during SRP
- Local anesthesia (usually)
- Ultrasonic scaling below the gum line
- Hand scaling for finer work
- Root surface smoothing (planing)
- Sometimes: antibiotic gel placement in pockets
Duration: 60-90 minutes per quadrant; typically done as full mouth in 2 sessions.
Typical 2026 pricing in Colombia
After SRP
Follow-up matters:
- Perio maintenance every 3-4 months (not standard 6-month cleaning)
- Improved home care regimen (Waterpik, interdental brushes)
- Re-evaluation of pocket depths at 6 weeks and 3 months
- Continued monitoring for progression
SRP success rates
- Most patients show reduced pocket depths within 3 months
- Complete healing depends on baseline severity
- Recurrence common without maintenance
- Severe cases may still progress despite treatment
When SRP isn't enough
If SRP doesn't produce adequate improvement, next steps:
- Surgical periodontal treatment (flap surgery)
- Bone grafting for larger defects
- Laser periodontal therapy
- Referral to periodontist
Consult questions
- What are my specific pocket depth measurements?
- Do I have bone loss visible on x-rays?
- What's your protocol if SRP doesn't fully resolve my case?
- What's your recommended maintenance schedule after SRP?
Bottom line
SRP is legitimate therapeutic treatment for periodontal disease — not routine cleaning. Get clarity on why it's being recommended, and follow through with maintenance if you have it done. Colombian pricing makes both initial treatment and ongoing maintenance dramatically more affordable than US options.
Get a real dental quote
Send photos of your teeth and any prior treatment records — we'll route you to two or three accredited Colombian dentists who handle your specific case type.
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