Scaling & Root Planing

Perhaps it’s been a few years since your last cleaning and your gums are really sore. You’re bleeding a lot while brushing and flossing, and maybe you’ve even noticed your teeth shifting. The things you may not notice is that your breath will start to represent the health of your gums. I think it’s time you’re evaluated for a deep cleaning or what we call a scaling and root planing.

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What to expect

Some patients require more than routine preventative tooth and gum cleaning. Deep cleanings, can help alleviate many dental health problems by removing soft or hardened plaque from under the gum line, facilitating the healing of gums, and preventing tooth and bone loss and the spread of gum disease.

HERE ARE SOME SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE:

-Continuous bleeding when brushing and flossing
-Foul odor to your breath that isn’t freshened by mouthwash
-Red, puffy inflamed gums that lack a healthy stippled appearance
-Large black triangles between your teeth which represents bone loss
-Deep pockets where food and bacteria get caught beneath your gums

WHAT TO EXPECT

1-2 appointments

After a full examination and routine dental prophylaxis is completed, accompanied by a full set of dental radiographs and full mouth pocket depth assessment, you will be scheduled to start your quadrant scaling and root planing. We normally suggest to split the procedure up into either two or four appointments, but you and Dr. Plotnick will discuss the pros and cons concerning your specific case.

After full local anesthesia is achieved, a combination of ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers will be used to gently, yet efficiently rid your teeth of this harmful buildup. The procedure typically lasts 45 minutes per quadrant (quarter of your mouth) and all steps will be taken to ensure comfort during the entire procedure. If broken up into two separate appointments, the doctor will prescribe a medicated mouthrinse that is proven to improve healing to your tissues in the week between your appointments.

Once completed, your recall will consist of an appointment in three months to assess pocket depth reduction, overall health of tissue and home maintenance. It is suggested to stay on a three-four month recall for routine dental cleanings until the bacteria is removed, your home care has improved, and pockets have decreased to a manageable depth. We will guide you through every step of the way.

Your gums will THANK YOU for this.

Scaling & Root Planing Frequently Asked Questions

Is scaling and root planing painful?

Scaling and root planing is performed using local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, which typically resolves within a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How is scaling and root planing different from a regular dental cleaning?

A routine dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line, while scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning that targets bacteria and hardened deposits beneath the gums. It also smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and reduce periodontal pockets.

How long does it take to recover after scaling and root planing?

Most patients recover within a few days, although the gums may remain slightly tender or sensitive for up to a week. Following your post-treatment instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene will help promote healing and improve your results.

Will I need additional treatment after scaling and root planing?

Many patients achieve healthier gums with scaling and root planing alone, especially when periodontal disease is detected early. However, Dr. Plotnick will monitor your healing during follow-up visits and may recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings or additional treatment if deeper pockets or inflammation persist.

Can scaling and root planing stop gum disease?

Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective nonsurgical treatments for managing periodontal disease. While it cannot reverse damage that has already occurred, it can remove the bacteria causing the infection, reduce inflammation, and help prevent the disease from progressing.

How will I know if I need scaling and root planing?

Your periodontist will evaluate the health of your gums by measuring periodontal pocket depths, reviewing dental X-rays, and checking for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and bone loss. If gum disease has progressed below the gum line, scaling and root planing may be recommended to restore your periodontal health.

How can I maintain my results after scaling and root planing?

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home, attending regular periodontal maintenance visits, and avoiding tobacco use are key to protecting your gums after treatment. Consistent follow-up care allows Dr. Plotnick to monitor your periodontal health and address any concerns before they become more serious.

Alexandra N.

I have never wanted to go to the dentist in my life but this visit changed that! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and the office is such a calming space. The care I received was attentive and everyone made me feel informed.

Eric T.

"She seems to genuinely care about her work and her patients -- she's an excellent listener, clearly works hard to make patients feel comfortable and overcome nervousness about potential pain (which was especially appreciated when I needed a large + scary crown replacement), and gives great advice."

Verified Patient

"Very professional, knowledgeably, and courteous dentist. Spends time to discuss your concerns/answered questions. Dental hygienist was very good/thorough..."

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