Scaling and Root Planing in New York, NY

About Scaling and Root Planing at Rock Dental

Scaling and root planing are a more in-depth, thorough cleaning treatment recommended for patients who may be suffering from periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, this type of gum infection is caused by bacteria and plaque forming on your teeth over time and causing inflammation. While serious, periodontal disease is treatable. However, it can lead to bone or tooth loss if not treated quickly.

When your gums become inflamed, bacteria hides in pockets that trigger the gums to push away from the teeth. Once these layers or pockets have been formed, it is nearly impossible to clean them with just brushing alone. This is where scaling and root planing becomes necessary. During the scaling portion of this conventional periodontal therapy, our team will use a scaling tool to remove any plaque, bacteria, and tartar around the affected tooth and below the gumline all the way to the bottom of the infected pocket.

After the scaling is complete, we will move onto root planing. The root planing technique is used to smooth out the tooth’s root and ultimately remove the pocket caused by bacteria. When the root has been effectively smoothed, the gums can be reattached and have a greater chance of fully healing.

Some patients report mild discomfort during the procedure and increased sensitivity after the treatment is complete, but with a personalized treatment plan, we can help manage any discomfort and pain. Moving forward, practicing good oral hygiene is paramount for making sure that periodontal disease doesn’t become worse after seeking initial treatment at our office.

Who Needs a Deep Cleaning Instead of a Regular One

A regular cleaning is preventive. It removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line in a mouth that is basically healthy. A deep cleaning is treatment. It is recommended when your exam shows signs of active gum disease, such as pocket measurements deeper than about three millimeters, bleeding when the gums are measured, tartar below the gum line, or bone loss on X-rays. In that situation a standard cleaning cannot reach where the problem is.

This is why the recommendation can come as a surprise. Gum disease frequently causes no pain, so you may feel fine while the measurements tell a different story. If you have been told you need scaling and root planing, ask to see your pocket chart and X-rays so you understand what was found. Treating at this stage is generally simpler than waiting, and for many people it is the only active treatment their gums need before moving to maintenance.

How to Prepare and How to Care for Your Gums After

Before your appointment, tell us about your medical conditions and medications, especially blood thinners, heart conditions or joint replacements, since your dentist may give specific instructions. Eat beforehand, because your mouth will be numb for a few hours afterward. Treatment is commonly split into two or more visits, working on one side or one section of the mouth at a time. If you are anxious, ask about nitrous oxide when you request your appointment.

Once the numbness wears off, expect some tenderness, and stick to softer foods for a day or two. Brush gently but do not skip the treated areas, and use any rinse your dentist recommends. Your gums are typically rechecked several weeks later to measure how the pockets have responded. After that, most patients move to periodontal maintenance cleanings, commonly every three to four months, with the interval adjusted to your needs. Call (212) 332-1020 if you have swelling or pain that gets worse.