Scaling & Root Planing

What Is Scaling & Root Planing?

Non-surgical scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as “deep cleanings”, are often the first line of treatment for periodontal disease. The goal of this procedure is to remove plaque and calculus build-up on the teeth, and reduce inflammation in the gum tissue. Typically, half of the mouth is treated at a time, with ~1-2 weeks between procedures.

The side of the mouth that is receiving treatment will be thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. After we ensure you are comfortable, we begin the process of cleaning the root surfaces above and below the surface of the gums using a combination of ultrasonic instrumentation with water spray and hand instruments. In select cases, a dental laser may also be used to aid with calculus removal, decontaminate the pockets, further reduce inflammation, and promote healing. In some specific cases, we may also use concentrated, local antibiotics placed directly in the gum pocket. Your provider will discuss these adjunctive services and inform you if they are indicated in your case.

After deep cleanings are completed in all necessary sites, a follow-up appointment is scheduled for 4-6 weeks out. This gives your gum tissue time to heal after the plaque, calculus, and bacteria is removed. The follow-up visit is known as a “re-evaluation”. We will update your records with a clinical exam and new charting of pocket depths. Your treatment plan will be updated and discussed at this appointment. Depending on your healing response to deep cleanings, a secondary phase of treatment may be necessary (likely periodontal surgery) to fully control and manage your periodontal disease. Once stability is achieved, we will discuss an appropriate maintenance schedule that is personalized to manage your condition long-term.

We offer multiple sedation options for surgical procedures, if needed.

Treatment Timeline

Visit 1: Consult & Exam

Review of health history and determine diagnosis
Full periodontal charting completed
Review recommended treatment plan and answer all questions

Visit 2: Deep Cleanings (may be completed with your general dentist)

Commonly, the initial phase of periodontal treatment starts with deep cleanings to remove the built-up plaque and calculus from the root surfaces and reduce the inflammation in the gum tissue
Deep cleanings are completed in 2 separate appointments (right side and left side) that are preferably completed within 2 weeks of one another
Review post-op instructions and care

Visit 3: Re-evaluation and Treatment Planning (4-6 weeks)