Scaling and Root Planing

Gum disease can lead to serious oral health issues if left untreated, but scaling and root planing—also known as deep cleaning—can help restore the health of your gums and prevent further damage. At Port City Dentistry, we specialize in precise and effective deep cleaning treatments to remove plaque and bacteria, reducing inflammation and supporting long-term oral health.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease that focuses on removing harmful plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline. This deep cleaning procedure consists of two essential steps:

• Scaling – A specialized dental instrument, such as an ultrasonic scaler or hand scaler, is used to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and beneath the gumline.
• Root Planing – The roots of the teeth are smoothed to prevent bacteria from reattaching and to encourage healthy gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth.

This procedure is an essential treatment for gingivitis and early-to-moderate periodontitis, helping to stop the progression of gum disease and prevent tooth loss.

Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing

Gum disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, but there are key warning signs that may indicate the need for a deep cleaning:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums – If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, this may be an early sign of gingivitis or periodontitis.
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis) – Plaque buildup and bacterial infection can cause chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with regular brushing.
• Receding gums – As gum disease progresses, the gum tissue may pull away from the teeth, making them appear longer.
• Loose or shifting teeth – Advanced gum disease can weaken the bone structure, leading to tooth mobility.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Port City Dentistry to assess your gum health.

The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Undergoing deep cleaning treatment at Port City Dentistry offers several benefits, including:

• Prevention of Tooth Loss – Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Deep cleaning removes infection before it can spread further.
• Reduction of Gum Inflammation – Removing plaque and bacteria helps reduce gum redness, swelling, and tenderness.
• Improved Breath and Oral Hygiene – Cleaning below the gumline eliminates odor-causing bacteria and promotes fresh breath.
• Prevention of Systemic Health Issues – Research has linked gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions. Treating gum disease helps support overall health.

At Port City Dentistry, we use the latest techniques to ensure that your treatment is effective, comfortable, and stress-free.

What to Expect During a Scaling and Root Planing Treatment

Many patients wonder what the deep cleaning process involves. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect:

1. Dental Exam – Our dental team will assess your gums, take X-rays if needed, and determine the severity of gum disease.
2. Numbing the Area – To ensure your comfort, we use local anesthesia to numb the gums and teeth before the procedure.
3. Scaling and Root Planing – Using advanced hand scalers or ultrasonic instruments, we remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline.
4. Post-Treatment Care – We provide detailed aftercare instructions and may prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash to aid healing and reduce bacteria.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort after the procedure and can resume normal activities within a day.

Scaling and Root Planing Aftercare: How to Heal Faster

Following your deep cleaning treatment, it’s important to take proper care of your gums to promote healing:

• Avoid Hard or Spicy Foods – Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours to minimize gum irritation.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.
• Use an Antibacterial Mouth Rinse – This helps reduce bacteria and promotes healing.
• Attend Follow-Up Appointments – We may recommend a follow-up visit to monitor your healing progress and determine if additional treatment is needed.

By maintaining proper oral hygiene, you can reduce the risk of gum disease recurrence and keep your smile healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing