Scaling and Root Planing

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Fortunately, if gum (periodontal) disease is diagnosed in the first stage — often called gingivitis — it might be addressed with a professional teeth cleaning and improved at-home oral health habits. However, when your gum condition progresses to the following phase, known as periodontitis, we often recommend scaling and root planing (SRP) treatments. SRP is a noninvasive gum disease treatment option that removes buildup, tartar, and dangerous bacteria from behind the gumline. Our experienced dental hygienists each with over 30 years in practice perform scaling and root planing procedures with your comfort in mind. even out the outer portions of your tooth roots within periodontal pockets with extremely fine dental tools. Root scraping, as it's sometimes called, can offer a better atmosphere for your gums and halt the progression of periodontal disease.

Do I Need Scaling and Root Planing?

You may be an ideal candidate for SRP treatments if you have red or sensitive gums, halitosis, gumline separation, or other signs of gum disease. At your bi-annual teeth cleanings and annual dental exams, we will assess the regions dividing your teeth and gums. In cases where these spaces are more than 3 mm deep and our x-rays show that bone loss has taken place, we will likely suggest SRP therapy. This periodontal disease treatment can reduce the size of your gum pockets, which can let you more easily clean your gums.

How is Scaling and Root Planing Performed?

When you come in for scaling and root planing, it is generally done in quadrants of your mouth over a period of 1 – 4 visits. To ensure that you feel comfortable during your visit(s), we will desensitize your mouth by utilizing a local anesthetic. When you are ready to begin, our team will use an advanced root scaler and handheld instruments to delicately remove tartar and plaque from inside your gum pockets. The tooth root surfaces are then smoothed, or planed, to minimize the spots where disease-causing bacteria like to hide. While the idea of scaling and root planing might sound daunting, this is a relatively routine procedure and can largely improve your oral health.

What Happens After Scaling and Root Planing Therapy?

You will likely experience some tenderness and gum sensitivity after your treatment, which could linger for a few days. These irritations can generally be eased with nonprescription pain medication and warm saline rinses. Using a great dental hygiene routine, like careful tooth brushing and flossing each day, is necessary for maintaining your periodontal health. We may also advise that you receive periodic periodontal maintenance treatments to reduce the chances of further infections and better care for your periodontal wellness. These periodontal cleaning sessions are typically scheduled every 3 – 4 months and stand in for routine dental cleanings. If you have any questions about how to better care for your teeth at home, we're happy to help you create an at-home care routine and show you how to best brush and care for your teeth.

Will Scaling and Root Planing be Covered by Insurance?

If you have dental insurance, our team will do our best to optimize your insurance benefits and determine your complete benefits before figuring out any out-of-pocket costs. Our office accepts multiple payment options to help ensure that your dental treatment is more convenient.