Scaling and Root Planing

If gum disease is caught early and hasn’t damaged the structures below the gum line, a professional cleaning should do. If the pockets between your gums and teeth are too deep, however, you will need more than a typical cleaning.

Non-surgical treatment for periodontal disease includes what is called scaling and root planing. This is a common technique that uses special instruments and trained professionals to remove bacteria and infection from the unhealthy areas around the teeth and below the gum line. This procedure can be done in the office, in one to two visits. Safe and effective medications may be prescribed to aid you in reducing pocket depths along with the scaling and root planing.

Frequently Asked Questions

I see things online, like oil pulling that promote healing gum disease. Can I just try that?

Although there is a lot of emerging science that reflects positively on this process however, it will not reverse gum disease that has hardened build-up. Only a licensed professional can do that.

This sounds very serious and not just normal cleaning. Will it hurt?

Many factors depend on the severity of your particular case. Oftentimes patients prefer to be numb for the procedure. Getting numb for this is the same process as you would have for any restorative care and should wear off after a few hours.

What is the difference between this and normal cleaning?

With gum disease, there is infection and bacteria below the gum line that needs to be removed so health can be restored to those affected areas. Typically, for patients being seen every 4-6 months, those are above the gumline. The procedures are completely different.

Can this all be done in one visit or will it require multiple visits?

We will actually go over all of your options with you prior to treatment. There are many variables as to how this can be addressed, and we like to have the patient choose the best option for them on how to proceed.