Scaling and Root Planing
A deep-cleaning procedure that treats gum disease below the gumline, helping stop its progression and protect your teeth for years to come.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing — often called a "deep cleaning" — is a two-part procedure used to treat gum disease that has progressed below the gumline. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and root pockets, while root planing smooths the root surfaces themselves, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and giving your gums the chance to heal and reattach to your teeth.
Unlike a routine cleaning, this procedure specifically targets the areas where gum disease takes hold — the pockets that form between your teeth and gums as infection progresses.
Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from teeth
- Deepening pockets between teeth and gums
- Tenderness or swelling in the gum tissue
Benefits of Treatment
Helps Prevent Tooth Loss
By removing bacteria and buildup below the gumline, scaling and root planing helps stop gum disease from progressing to the point where teeth become loose or are lost.
Improves the Look of Your Smile
As gums heal and reattach to smoothed tooth roots, swelling and redness subside, giving your smile a healthier appearance.
Supports Your Overall Health
Treating the infection and inflammation of gum disease benefits more than just your mouth — it's a meaningful step toward protecting your overall health.
What to Expect
Generally speaking, a scaling and root planing procedure begins with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable, followed by careful removal of plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing of the root surfaces. Afterward, some mild soreness or sensitivity is common for a few days as your gums begin to heal. Dr. Isaacs will let you know exactly what to expect for your specific case during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and scaling and root planing?
A regular cleaning addresses plaque and tartar above the gumline. Scaling and root planing is a deeper procedure that reaches below the gumline to clean tooth roots and smooth them so gums can reattach — it's used specifically to treat gum disease, not just for routine maintenance.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
We use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure itself. Some mild soreness or sensitivity afterward is normal and typically fades within a few days.
How many visits does it take?
Treatment is often completed over one or two visits, sometimes divided by quadrant of the mouth, depending on the extent of the gum disease. Dr. Isaacs will outline a specific plan after your exam.
Will I need follow-up care?
Yes — most patients move to more frequent periodontal maintenance cleanings afterward to help keep gum disease from returning, along with consistent home care.
Think You Need a Deep Cleaning?
Schedule an exam and let's protect your smile before gum disease progresses.