A deep cleaning procedure that treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing tooth roots to promote healing.
Also known as deep cleaning, this non-surgical procedure is the gold standard treatment for periodontal disease
Removes plaque and tartar (calculus) from above and below the gum line, reaching deep into periodontal pockets where harmful bacteria accumulate.
Smooths the tooth root surfaces, removing bacterial toxins and making it harder for bacteria to reattach. This helps gums reattach to teeth naturally.
Without treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections.
Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent serious complications
Gums that bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods
Gums pulling away from teeth, making teeth appear longer
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that doesn't improve with brushing
Red, puffy, or tender gums that are inflamed and sensitive
Teeth that feel loose or shift position when you bite down
Discharge between teeth and gums indicating active infection
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, don't wait. Schedule a consultation to assess your gum health and explore treatment options.
Schedule ConsultationUnderstanding what to expect during your scaling and root planing procedure
Your dentist examines your gums, measures pocket depths around each tooth, and takes X-rays to assess bone loss. This determines the extent of treatment needed.
The treatment area is numbed with local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Some patients may receive additional sedation options if needed.
Using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, the dentist carefully removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, reaching deep into periodontal pockets.
The root surfaces are smoothed to remove bacterial toxins and rough spots where bacteria can accumulate. This creates a clean surface for gums to reattach.
An antimicrobial medication may be applied to the treated areas to help eliminate remaining bacteria and promote healing. Some dentists use antibiotic chips or gels.
Depending on the severity of gum disease and the number of affected areas, the procedure may be completed in:
Halts the advancement of periodontal disease and prevents further damage to gums and bone
Allows gums to reattach to teeth, reducing the depth of periodontal pockets
Preserves your natural teeth by treating the underlying cause of loosening
Reduces bacteria that can enter bloodstream and affect heart, lungs, and blood sugar
Eliminates odor-causing bacteria for long-lasting fresh breath
Get answers to common questions about scaling and root planing
Don't let gum disease progress. Schedule a consultation today to learn if scaling and root planing is right for you. Our experienced team will assess your oral health and create a personalized treatment plan.