Deep cleaning

OK - I was at the dentist the other day to get my permanent crown put in and he insisted on doing full x-rays, etc. since I haven't seen a dentist for 20 years.  He said that I needed deep cleaning of my teeth because of gum disease...I don't really know what this is or why it's such a big deal.  Anyway, he said it's done under anesthesia by applying local gel.  My question is - who will do the procedure? a dental hygenist? is it painfull? what can I expect?

Thank you very much!!

[scottma]

Assuming deep cleaning refers to scaling and root planing or non-surgical periodontal debridement, the procedure generally invoves minimal pain. If in doubt, seeing a periodontist is advised.