Deep Cleaning, Scaling & Root Planing

Gingivitis is a progressive condition that, if left unaddressed, can lead to serious deterioration of both teeth and gums. The mere mention of gingivitis can induce anxiety in many patients, but the truth is that its treatment is straightforward and can be done right in our office.

 

The buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive. This bacterial growth leads to inflammation of the gums, causing symptoms such as redness and bleeding—often noticeable when brushing or eating. These early signs indicate the onset of gingivitis, which can be effectively treated through professional scaling and polishing.

 

If gingivitis is ignored, it may escalate, necessitating more extensive procedures like root planing. Scaling involves removing tartar from the tooth surfaces, while root planing smooths the roots and eliminates infected areas.

 

Chronic plaque and tartar buildup can eventually harden into calculus, prompting the body to react with increased inflammation. This inflammation can result in irreversible bone loss, altering the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth and allowing harmful strains to flourish. In some cases, additional treatments such as antimicrobial rinses, laser therapy, or antibiotics may be required to restore health.

 

While the scaling and root planing procedure is typically painless, advanced stages of gingivitis or periodontitis may require local anesthesia for added comfort. We generally perform deep scaling in segments, allowing sufficient healing time between sessions and minimizing the duration of each appointment.