Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, aim to remove hard tartar accumulation that has adhered to your teeth. You may require this treatment if you have periodontitis, a periodontal inflammation affecting tissues surrounding teeth and involving various degrees of bone loss.

Periodontal disease

Gum disease is an infection or inflammation that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. It develops due to a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. If they’re not cleaned well, bacteria accumulate and it transforms into tartar, or dental calculus. This bacterial film can lead to your gums receding from the teeth, forming large pockets that are unreachable with a regular toothbrush. Deep cleaning plays a crucial role in restoring periodontal health by eliminating plaque and tartar accumulation, facilitating the healing of gums, and preventing further issues such as recession, bone loss, and mobility.

Some signs of periodontal disease are:

  • Red or swollen gums

  • Bad breath or taste that won’t go away

  • Tender or bleeding gums

  • Sensitive teeth

  • Loose teeth

  • Painful chewing

What to Expect

Appointment Length: 45 min to 1 hour

1 or 2 visits

This deep cleaning has two parts. Scaling is when all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) are removed above and below the gumline, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. We will then begin root planing, smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. Scaling and root planing may take more than one visit to complete and may require a local anesthetic.

After Care

After a deep cleaning, you may have pain for a day or two and teeth sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and bleed.

To prevent infection, control pain or help you heal, we may prescribe a pill or mouth rinse. Your dentist may also insert medication (subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline) directly into the pocket that was cleaned.

We will schedule another visit to see how your gums have healed and measure the depth of your pockets. If they have gotten deeper, more treatment may be needed.

Good dental care at home is essential to help keep gum disease from becoming more serious or recurring.  Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush, clean between your teeth daily, avoid using tobacco, and make a regular perio maintenance appointment.

Resource: American Dental Association website.