Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure designed to treat gum disease and improve the health of your gums. Unlike a routine six-month dental cleaning, which focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the visible surfaces of your teeth, scaling and root planing reaches below the gumline to clean areas that are affected by bacteria and buildup.

This treatment helps reduce gum inflammation, remove harmful deposits from the tooth roots, and create a healthier environment for your gums to heal. By smoothing the root surfaces, scaling and root planing allows the gum tissue to reattach more effectively to the teeth and helps prevent the progression of periodontal disease.

How Scaling and Root Planing Works

During your appointment, our dentist carefully evaluates the health of your gums and determines the areas that require treatment. Using specialized instruments, the procedure begins with scaling, which removes plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline.

The root planing portion of the procedure involves gently smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth to remove bacteria and rough areas where harmful buildup can collect. This allows the gums to heal and helps reduce inflammation, swelling, and sensitivity associated with gum disease.

Because the procedure involves cleaning below the gumline, a local anesthetic may be used to help ensure your comfort throughout treatment. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, scaling and root planing may be completed over multiple visits to provide the most effective results.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing provides several important benefits for your oral health, including:

  • Reducing gum inflammation and infection
  • Removing bacteria and tartar below the gumline
  • Preventing the progression of periodontal disease
  • Helping protect the supporting bone around your teeth
  • Reducing the risk of tooth loss
  • Improving overall gum health

When left untreated, periodontal disease can damage the gums and bone that support your teeth, potentially leading to loose teeth and tooth loss. Early treatment with scaling and root planing can help protect your smile and prevent more advanced dental problems.

Comprehensive Periodontal Care

There are a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments available to manage periodontal disease, depending on each patient’s individual needs. Our dental professionals are experienced in providing personalized periodontal care focused on treating infection, preserving healthy gum tissue, and protecting your long-term oral health.

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, swelling, gum recession, or persistent inflammation, scheduling an evaluation with our team is an important first step. With the right treatment plan, scaling and root planing can help restore healthier gums and maintain a strong, healthy smile for years to come.