Gum Health
Scaling & Root Planing
A deeper clean for healthier gums.
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots. This helps reduce gum inflammation, stop the progression of gum disease, and create a healthier environment for your teeth and gums.
Targets the Cause
Removes plaque and tartar below the gumline.
Helps Gums Heal
Reduces inflammation and supports healthier tissue.
Preserves Your Smile
Helps prevent further bone loss and protect your teeth.
About Scaling & Root Planing
What is scaling & root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease (periodontitis). Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help prevent bacteria from reattaching. This treatment helps the gums reattach to the teeth, reduces pocket depths, and can slow or stop the progression of gum disease when combined with good home care and regular maintenance.
Common signs you may need scaling & root planing:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Deep periodontal pockets
- Diagnosis of periodontitis
Our Approach
Personalized Periodontal Care
We take a thorough approach, recommending the treatment that’s right for your needs, with ongoing support to help you maintain healthy gums.
Thorough Evaluation
We assess your gum health using a comprehensive exam, including measurements of gum pocket depths.
Customized Treatment Plan
We determine if scaling and root planing is the right option based on your needs, and explain what to expect.
Ongoing Support
Regular follow-up visits and professional cleanings help maintain your results and prevent future issues.
The Scaling & Root Planing Process
A Step-by-Step Look at the Treatment
While every case is unique, the process typically includes:
1. Examination & Measurement
We evaluate your gum health and measure pocket depths to determine the extent of treatment needed.
2. Scaling
Plaque and tartar are carefully removed from above and below the gumline.
3. Root Planing
The tooth roots are smoothed to help prevent bacteria from reattaching and to encourage gum reattachment.
4. Healing & Follow-Up
Your gums begin to heal over the following weeks, with follow-up visits to monitor your progress.
The Benefits
Healthier Gums, A Stronger Smile
- Removes harmful plaque and tartar
- Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
- Helps prevent further bone loss
- Supports gum reattachment and healing
- Protects your natural teeth
- Improves overall oral health and freshens breath
Are You a Candidate?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have been diagnosed with gum disease or periodontitis
- Have deep periodontal pockets
- Experience bleeding, swollen, or tender gums
- Have persistent bad breath
- Have receding gums or early bone loss
- Want to save your natural teeth and improve your gum health
- Are committed to good home care and regular maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scaling and root planing painful?
We numb the areas being treated, so most patients feel little discomfort. Your gums may be sore or sensitive for a few days afterward.
How long does the procedure take?
Each visit usually takes about one to two hours, depending on how many areas of the mouth are treated.
How many appointments will I need?
Many patients are treated in one or two visits, often by half of the mouth at a time, followed by a re-check several weeks later and regular maintenance cleanings.
Will my insurance cover scaling and root planing?
Many dental plans cover part of scaling and root planing, often under basic or periodontal benefits. Coverage varies, so our team will review your plan and explain your payment options before treatment.