Treating Gum Disease with Professional Deep Cleaning
Redwood City, CA Dentist Offers Scaling & Root Planing Services
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When plaque and tartar build up below the gumline, they can lead to inflammation, infection, and periodontal disease. Scaling and root planing, commonly called a deep cleaning, is a non surgical periodontal treatment that removes bacteria and hardened deposits beneath the gums to help restore gum health.
During this procedure, plaque and tartar are carefully removed from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. The root surfaces are then smoothed to help the gums reattach to the teeth and reduce periodontal pockets where bacteria collect. This treatment helps slow or stop the progression of gum disease and supports healthier gums over time.
Scaling and root planing may be recommended for patients with bleeding gums, inflammation, gum recession, or deep periodontal pockets. Treating these issues early helps protect the bone and tissues that support your teeth.
At Bay Area Dental Office, we focus on preventive care and early treatment to maintain strong teeth and healthy gums. If more advanced periodontal care is needed, we may refer you to a trusted specialist.
Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is often recommended when signs of gum disease are present.
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum inflammation or tenderness
- Gum recession
- Deep periodontal pockets around the teeth
If you notice these symptoms, a dental evaluation can determine whether deep cleaning treatment is needed.
What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning removes bacteria and buildup from below the gumline so the gums can heal.
- Your dentist or hygienist examines the gums and measures periodontal pockets
- Local anesthetic may be used to keep the area comfortable
- The cleaning may be completed in sections of the mouth over one or more visits
- Specialized instruments remove plaque and hardened tartar above and below the gumline
- The root surfaces are smoothed to help the gums reattach and reduce bacterial buildup
After treatment, mild tenderness or tooth sensitivity may occur for a few days as the gums heal.
Maintaining Gum Health After Treatment
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are important after scaling and root planing. Brushing, flossing, and routine checkups help prevent plaque from building up again.
Some patients may also benefit from periodontal maintenance cleanings, which help monitor gum health and maintain the results of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment, often called a deep cleaning, that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline while smoothing the root surfaces to help the gums heal and reattach.
2. How do I know if I need a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning may be recommended if you have symptoms of gum disease such as bleeding gums, inflammation, gum recession, bad breath, or deep periodontal pockets.
3. Is scaling and root planing painful?
Most patients tolerate the procedure well. Local anesthetic may be used to keep the area comfortable during treatment. Some mild tenderness afterward is normal as the gums heal.
4. How long does recovery take?
Most patients recover within a few days. Mild gum soreness or tooth sensitivity may occur temporarily but usually improves quickly.
5. Can scaling and root planing stop gum disease?
Scaling and root planing can help stop or slow the progression of early to moderate gum disease. Ongoing oral hygiene and regular dental visits are important for maintaining healthy gums.
6. How do I schedule a scaling and root planing appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling Bay Area Dental Office at (650) 587-3788 or by requesting an appointment through our website contact form. Our team will be happy to help you find a convenient time for your visit and answer any questions about deep cleaning treatment.