Scaling & Root Planing
Deep pockets between teeth and gums harbor bacteria that regular cleanings can’t reach. Scaling and root planing removes this buildup and smooths root surfaces to promote healing and reattachment. This thorough cleaning prevents gum disease progression and potential tooth loss. Restore gum health with specialized deep cleaning. Schedule your treatment online or call us today.
The deep clean difference
Benefits
People who get scaling and root planing often notice immediate improvements in gum health. That persistent inflammation or bleeding when brushing? Addressed by removing bacteria and buildup from below the gumline where regular cleanings can’t reach.
Infection control
Remove the harmful bacteria hidden deep in gum pockets that cause inflammation, bleeding, and potential tooth loss.Disease reversal
Stop and potentially reverse early gum disease progression before it leads to permanent bone and tissue damage.Fresh feeling
Experience noticeably cleaner teeth and healthier gums with reduced inflammation, bleeding, and persistent bad breath.Future protection
Create a clean foundation that makes your regular home care more effective at maintaining long-term gum health.
Frequently asked questions
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What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning treatment that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below your gum line. Scaling removes the buildup from tooth surfaces and root surfaces, while planing smooths rough areas on roots where bacteria like to collect. This thorough cleaning helps infected gums heal and reattach to your teeth. It’s often called “deep cleaning” and is the standard treatment for gum disease.
Why do I need scaling and root planing instead of regular cleaning?
You need deep cleaning when you have gum disease with pockets deeper than 3-4mm around your teeth. Regular cleanings only clean above and slightly below the gum line, but deep cleaning reaches further down to remove bacteria from root surfaces. When gum pockets are deep, harmful bacteria hide in these spaces and cause ongoing infection that regular cleaning can’t address.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
We use local anesthesia to numb your gums completely, so the procedure should be comfortable. You might feel pressure and vibration from our instruments, but no sharp pain. Some patients experience mild sensitivity for a few days afterward as their gums heal. We can also provide sedation options if you feel anxious about the treatment.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
Deep cleaning is usually done in 2-4 appointments, with each visit taking 45-90 minutes. We typically clean one section of your mouth at a time so you’re not numb everywhere at once. The total treatment time depends on how much tartar buildup you have and how deep your gum pockets are. Some patients with mild gum disease can have everything done in one longer appointment.
What can I expect after scaling and root planing?
Your gums will likely feel tender for 2-4 days as they begin healing. You might notice some bleeding when brushing or flossing initially, but this should decrease as your gums get healthier. Many patients see less bleeding and fresher breath within a week or two. Your gums may also appear to “shrink” as swelling goes down, which is normal and healthy.
How do I care for my teeth after deep cleaning?
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice daily. Floss carefully – your gums might be tender at first, but it’s important to keep cleaning between teeth. Use any prescribed mouth rinses as directed. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods for the first day or two. Take any prescribed pain medication as needed for comfort.
How much does scaling and root planing cost?
Deep cleaning typically costs $200-$400 per section of your mouth, with most patients needing 2-4 sections treated. The total cost usually ranges from $600-$1,600 depending on the extent of treatment needed. While this is more expensive than regular cleanings, it’s much less costly than the tooth loss and advanced treatments that untreated gum disease can cause.
Does insurance cover scaling and root planing?
Most dental insurance plans cover scaling and root planing at 80% under basic or periodontal services. Since it’s considered medically necessary treatment for gum disease, coverage is typically good. Some plans require documentation of pocket depths before approving treatment. We’ll verify your benefits and help maximize your insurance coverage before starting treatment.