What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective treatments for gum disease before it becomes severe. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces.
By cleaning between the gums and teeth down to the roots, this treatment helps the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
When Is Scaling and Root Planing Recommended?
Scaling and root planing may be recommended when plaque and tartar have collected below the gumline, periodontal pockets have formed, or signs of gum disease are present.
Common signs may include bleeding gums, gum tenderness, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
How Your Dentist Checks for Gum Disease
Your dentist or hygienist may check your gums for bleeding, inflammation, gum recession, and pocket depths around the teeth.
Dental X-rays may also be recommended to evaluate bone support around the teeth before treatment is planned.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal diseases, commonly known as gum diseases, are infections that affect the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
These conditions are often painless, which means many people are unaware they have a problem until damage has already occurred.
If left untreated, periodontal disease can become severe and lead to tooth loss.
The good news is that early treatment with scaling and root planing can help control gum disease, reduce inflammation, and protect the tissues that support your teeth.
What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing
Some tenderness, gum sensitivity, or mild bleeding may occur after treatment. Your dentist or hygienist may recommend specific brushing, flossing, rinsing, or follow-up instructions based on your condition.
Follow-up visits and periodontal maintenance cleanings may be recommended to monitor healing, reduce pocket depth, and help prevent gum disease from progressing.
Why Follow-Up Care Matters
Scaling and root planing helps remove plaque and tartar below the gumline, but gum disease requires ongoing care. Periodontal maintenance visits may be recommended more often than routine cleanings.
These visits help control bacteria, monitor gum pocket depths, and protect the teeth and supporting bone.
Questions & Answers
What is scaling and root planing?
This treatment removes plaque and tartar from deep periodontal pockets around the teeth. It may be completed over multiple visits depending on your condition.
The root surfaces are then smoothed to allow the gums to heal and reattach. Medications may also be used to reduce infection and support healing.
If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting is strongly recommended to improve treatment outcomes.
What causes periodontal disease?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, it produces toxins that irritate the gums.
Over time, the gums can pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria. If untreated, infection can spread and damage the supporting bone and tissues.
How can I prevent periodontal disease?
Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day to remove plaque between teeth. Regular professional cleanings are also essential to remove hardened tartar.
How are periodontal diseases treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In early stages, improving oral hygiene and professional cleanings may be sufficient.
In more advanced cases, scaling and root planing is required to remove infection below the gumline.
Will periodontal disease go away by itself?
No. Gum disease does not resolve on its own. Early detection and treatment are essential to protect your oral health and prevent further damage.
Is scaling and root planing the same as a regular cleaning?
No. A regular cleaning focuses on the visible tooth surfaces and gumline. Scaling and root planing is a deeper cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces.
Will I need more than one visit?
Treatment may be completed in one or more visits depending on the number of areas being treated, the depth of the pockets, and your dentist’s recommendation.
Will I need periodontal maintenance afterward?
Many patients need follow-up periodontal maintenance visits after scaling and root planing to monitor healing and help control gum disease over time.
Need a Deep Cleaning for Gum Disease?
Scaling and root planing can help remove plaque and tartar below the gumline, reduce inflammation, and support healthier gums.
Schedule a visit at one of our Florida locations if you have bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, or signs of periodontal disease.