A Non-Surgical Treatment for Gum Disease

Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective, non‑surgical treatments for gum disease, especially in its early stages. This procedure targets the area between your gums and teeth, cleaning below the gumline to prevent gum disease from progressing.

Scaling involves the removal of dental tartar and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, while root planing smooths out the tooth roots and removes any infected or damaged tissue. Together, these steps help control gum disease and promote healthier gums.

How Scaling and Root Planing Helps

If you have gum disease or gum pocketing, the pockets around your teeth may have deepened, allowing tartar to form beneath the gumline. A thorough cleaning of the root surfaces helps remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets, while smoothing the tooth roots removes bacterial toxins. This treatment is crucial in controlling gum disease and allowing your gums to heal.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

While scaling and root planing is typically not very painful, you might experience some soreness afterwards since the deeper areas of your gums have been cleaned. It’s also common for teeth to become more sensitive to temperature and for some bleeding to occur immediately after the procedure.

Here are a few helpful tips for recovery:

Discomfort can be alleviated with over‑the‑counter painkillers like ibuprofen and ice packs applied to the treated area.
Be gentle when brushing and flossing, especially in the first few days after the procedure, to avoid irritating sensitive gums.
We will guide you on the best techniques for maintaining oral hygiene during your recovery period.

Why Scaling and Root Planing Works

Scaling and root planing is a simple yet highly effective procedure that helps control gum disease. With consistent post-treatment care and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can stop the progression of gum disease. Over time, your gums will heal and regain their healthy, firm, and pink appearance.

Explore Our Helpful Video Guides

Debridement

This video explains the process of debridement, a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Learn how this treatment can help restore your gum health and prevent disease.

Prophy vs Scaling and Root Planing

Discover the difference between prophy cleaning and scaling/root planing. This video provides an overview of both procedures to help you understand which one is right for maintaining your oral health.

Scaling and Root Planing

Get an in-depth look at the scaling and root planing process, a deep cleaning technique used to treat gum disease. Learn what to expect during this procedure and how it benefits your gum health.

Site-Specific Antibiotic Placement

This video demonstrates how site-specific antibiotic placement helps treat gum disease. Learn how this targeted treatment can promote healing and prevent further damage to your gums.

Post-Operative Instructions for Scaling and Root Planing

After scaling and root planing, proper care is essential. This video provides clear post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and gum health after the procedure.