Removing Plaque and Tartar Below the Gumline
Scaling and root planing is often referred to as a deep cleaning because it addresses areas below the gumline that cannot be reached during a routine dental cleaning.
Treatment involves two parts:
- Scaling: Removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gumline and around the roots of the teeth.
- Root planing: Smoothing of the root surfaces to help the gums heal and make it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate.
The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, eliminate harmful bacteria, and create a healthier environment for the gums to heal.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It develops when plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, triggering inflammation that can gradually damage the gums, connective tissues, and underlying bone.
Without treatment, periodontal disease can progress over time and become a leading cause of tooth loss. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can help control the disease and protect your long-term oral health.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease progresses through several stages:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage, often causing red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
- Early to Moderate Periodontitis: Infection begins affecting the tissues and bone that support the teeth.
- Advanced Periodontitis: Significant bone loss and tooth mobility may occur if the disease is left untreated.
Because periodontal disease is often painless in its early stages, many patients do not realize they have it until significant damage has already occurred.
When Scaling and Root Planing May Be Recommended
Dr. Longenecker may recommend scaling and root planing when there are signs that gum disease has progressed below the gumline and cannot be managed with a routine dental cleaning alone.
Common signs of periodontal disease include:
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Deep periodontal pockets
- Bone loss visible on X-rays
- Loose teeth in more advanced cases
A comprehensive dental exam, periodontal evaluation, and dental X-rays help determine whether scaling and root planing is appropriate for your needs.
What to Expect During Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is typically performed using local anesthetic to help keep you comfortable throughout treatment. During the procedure, plaque, tartar, and bacteria are removed from below the gumline, and the root surfaces are carefully cleaned and smoothed.
Depending on the amount of treatment needed, the procedure may be completed in one visit or over multiple appointments.
For patients with more advanced periodontal disease, referral to a periodontist may be recommended for specialized evaluation and treatment.
Periodontal Maintenance After Treatment
Scaling and root planing is often the first step in managing gum disease, but long-term success depends on ongoing care.
After treatment, Dr. Longenecker may recommend periodontal maintenance visits to help keep harmful bacteria under control and monitor the health of your gums. These visits are typically scheduled more frequently than routine dental cleanings and are customized to each patient’s needs.
Why Early Treatment Is Important
When left untreated, periodontal disease can continue to damage the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Over time, this can lead to worsening gum recession, bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss.
Periodontal disease has also been linked to several systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other inflammatory conditions. While treating gum disease is not a substitute for medical care, maintaining healthy gums is an important part of supporting overall health and well-being.
Treating periodontal disease early helps reduce inflammation, preserve healthy bone and gum tissue, and often prevents the need for more extensive treatment in the future.
“There is a direct link between your oral health and your overall health, and that is our core value. We want to help people with their dental needs and make them healthier and feel better.”
— Dr. Longenecker
Insurance Information
Hereford Dental Health is not contracted with any dental insurance plans. Payment is due at the time of service, and our team will submit claims on your behalf to help you maximize any available out-of-network benefits.
We work hard to make the reimbursement process as straightforward as possible and are happy to answer questions about insurance, payment options, and treatment costs before your appointment.
FAQs About Scaling and Root Planing
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. It is commonly used to treat gum disease and help prevent further damage to the gums and supporting bone.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is typically used during treatment to help keep patients comfortable. Some mild tenderness or sensitivity may occur afterward, but most patients tolerate the procedure well.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
Treatment time depends on the extent of gum disease and the number of areas being treated. Some patients complete treatment in one visit, while others may require multiple appointments.
Is scaling and root planing the same as a deep cleaning?
Yes. Scaling and root planing is commonly referred to as a deep cleaning because it removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline where a routine dental cleaning cannot reach.
Where can I get scaling and root planing in Monkton?
Hereford Dental Health provides scaling and root planing in Monkton for patients throughout northern Baltimore County. We help patients manage gum disease through personalized treatment and ongoing periodontal care.