If you have been to the dentist, you probably know that a routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar. But for those with progressing gum disease, regular cleanings may no longer be enough. As buildup moves below the gumline, you may need a nonsurgical treatment called scaling and root planing.
So, how do you know if you can benefit from this deep cleaning? Let’s find out.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning designed to treat gum disease. During scaling, we carefully remove plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gumline using special instruments. Root planing then smooths out the tooth’s roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate and helping the gums heal and reattach to the teeth,
Unlike a regular routine cleaning, this focuses on areas that are difficult or impossible to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing
While your dentist will let you know if scaling and root planing should be part of your treatment plan, there are a few things you may recognize on your own.
Bleeding Gums
When you brush or floss regularly, your gums should not bleed. Even if this happens occasionally, it could signal inflammation and periodontal disease.
Red, Swollen Gums
Healthy gums are pink and discomfort-free. Anytime you notice redness, swelling, or tenderness, it can indicate inflammation caused by plaque and bacteria below the gumline.
Noticeable Gum Pockets
The depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums is something else to look out for. As gum disease progresses, pockets can deepen, allowing bacteria and tartar to accumulate beneath the gumline. When pockets get too deep for a routine cleaning to address, we may recommend scaling and root planing because it reaches deeper.
Gum Recession or Bone Loss
Are your gums receding? Do your teeth look longer?
Periodontal disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and can even affect the bone supporting them. During your evaluation, we may use periodontal measurements and dental X-rays to assess your gum health and supporting structures.
Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath is often linked to tooth decay, but it can also indicate that bacteria and plaque have accumulated around the teeth and gums. If you experience this regularly, it is definitely something to discuss.
Don’t Wait for Gum Disease to Get Worse
Gum disease often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular dental examinations are so important. If we identify signs of periodontal disease, we can recommend treatment based on the condition of your gums and supporting structures.
Scaling and root planing is a very effective tool, but it only works if you take the first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can scaling and root planing cure gum disease?
Scaling and root planing is not a cure, but it can be an important nonsurgical treatment for periodontitis. However, maintaining healthy gums also requires consistent oral hygiene, such as brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.
Is scaling and root planing the same as a regular dental cleaning?
No. A regular cleaning generally focuses on plaque and tartar above the gumline, while scaling and root planing is a deeper periodontal treatment that cleans below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots. Scaling and root planning has been commonly called “deep cleaning”.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
The procedure can sometimes cause some discomfort, but local anesthesia can keep the area numb and pain-free. You may have tenderness or sensitivity afterward, which will dissipate as your gums heal.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
The amount of time depends on how much treatment your gums need. We may recommend treating different areas of the mouth during separate appointments.
How do we know if we need scaling and root planing?
We evaluate your gums during a comprehensive dental examination, including periodontal measures and, when appropriate, dental X-rays. These findings help us determine whether you have gum disease and what treatment best meets your needs.
At JM Dental of Westbury, we provide personalized dental care designed to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums at every stage of life. Are you concerned about gum disease or think you may need a deeper cleaning? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.