Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a gentle, effective way to treat early gum disease. At Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry, we provide thorough, comfort-focused care to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline, reduce inflammation, and support healthy gum tissue.

What You Should Know About Gum Disease

Periodontal or gum disease is a common but serious infection of the gums caused by plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory issues, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease develops over time, and recognizing the early signs helps us treat it before it becomes more serious. Here’s how it progresses:

• Gingivitis: The earliest stage. Gums may look red, puffy, or bleed when brushing. There is no bone loss yet, and with good oral hygiene and routine cleanings, gingivitis is reversible.
• Mild to moderate periodontitis: The infection moves deeper under the gumline. Pockets form, tartar buildup hardens on the tooth roots, and early bone loss begins. Scaling and root planing are often recommended at this point.
• Advanced periodontitis: Bone loss becomes significant. Gums recede, teeth may loosen, and there is a higher risk of tooth loss. Some patients may need periodontal surgery, bone grafting, or other restorative treatments.

Early treatment helps protect your gums, prevent further bone loss, and reduce long-term health complications.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical gum therapy that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth roots under the gumline. Also known as a deep cleaning, it helps reduce inflammation, lower pocket depths, and support healing.

Scaling removes hardened tartar and plaque buildup from above and below the gumline. Special tools allow your hygienist to reach areas that regular cleanings cannot.

Root planing smooths the tooth roots so bacteria have fewer places to attach. A smooth surface helps the gums heal and reattach, which improves long-term gum health.

We may recommend scaling and root planing if you have:

• Bleeding or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Deep pockets around the teeth
• Evidence of bone loss on digital X-rays

Treating gum disease early with deep cleaning often prevents the need for more complex periodontal surgery later.

What to Expect at Your Scaling and Root Planing Appointment

Your visit is designed to be comfortable, thorough, and focused on improving gum health. Here is what a typical deep cleaning includes:

1. Assessment and digital X-rays: We review your gums, measure pocket depths, and check for signs of bone loss.
2. Deep cleaning (scaling): Your dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline using special tools.
3. Root planing: The tooth roots are smoothed to reduce bacterial buildup and help the gums heal and reattach.
4. Personalized home care tips: We review brushing and flossing techniques to help you maintain your results.

It’s common to experience mild tenderness for a day or two. Most patients can resume normal activities right away.

Caring for Your Smile Between Visits

Regular periodontal maintenance is an important step in preventing future bone loss and protecting your long-term oral health. To help maintain your results, we may recommend the following:

• Scheduling more frequent periodontal maintenance visits
• Using fluoride treatments to protect exposed tooth root
• Adding an antibacterial mouth rinse to your routine
• Avoiding smoking, which slows healing

Staying consistent helps protect your gums between visits. With regular maintenance and good home care, you can keep inflammation under control and support long-term gum health.