Gum disease starts quietly and is a progressive disease that doesn’t go away on its own. It occurs when plaque and tartar slip below the gumline, where brushing and flossing aren’t enough to stop the damage. With nearly four in 10 adults over 30 living with some form of periodontitis, it’s known as one of the most common oral health problems. 

The first step in treating this common dental problem is a non-surgical treatment designed to clear out harmful buildup, smooth the roots of your teeth, and give your gums the chance to heal. 

Read on to get the best dentist in Hillsborough’s take on why scaling and root planing are the first line of defense against gum disease and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure so you can approach it with confidence.

What is Scaling and Root Planing? 

Scaling and root planing go much further than the professional dental cleanings that you are used to getting at your routine dental checkups. 

While a standard cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the visible surfaces of your teeth, scaling and root planing take a restorative approach as a non-surgical procedure that targets buildup both above and below the gumline, reaching the areas where gum disease takes hold. The treatment happens in two steps: 

  • Scaling, which carefully removes hardened deposits from the teeth and roots
  • Root planing, which smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and reattach more securely

Because the process is thorough and can take time, dentists often only treat one section of the mouth at a time, depending on how advanced the disease is and what will keep you most comfortable. This approach makes scaling and root planing an effective first step in restoring gum health and preventing further damage. 

Why You Might Need Scaling and Root Planing

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is usually reversible with good brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings. However, once the condition progresses to periodontitis, it requires more advanced care. Left untreated, periodontitis can cause damage to the bone that supports your teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss over time. 

To make a clear diagnosis, your dentist will often perform a periodontal exam with probing that carefully measures pocket depths around each tooth, and may also take dental X-rays to evaluate bone levels. Scaling and root planing are typically recommended when gum pockets measure deeper than about three to four millimeters, or when there are noticeable signs like bleeding gums, swelling, tenderness, or gum recession. 

What Happens During Scaling and Root Planing for Gum Disease Treatment

During a scaling and root planing treatment, your dentist or hygienist typically uses local anesthesia to numb the area, keeping you comfortable while they work. The procedure relies on specialized tools, like scalers, curettes, and periodontal probes, to carefully remove plaque and tartar. Ultrasonic scalers may also be used to speed up the process with gentle vibrations and water spray. 

In some cases, your dental provider may recommend antibiotic rinses or medications that support healing. Because this treatment can last one to two hours, it’s often divided into sections of the mouth. This approach ensures each area receives detailed attention without becoming overwhelming. 

Recovery and Aftercare: What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing

After scaling and root planing, it’s normal to notice some short-term changes as your gums begin to heal. Mild tenderness, minor bleeding, and temporary tooth sensitivity are common, and you may see a bit of gum recession as the swelling goes down and tissues start to reattach. Most people recover within a few days, and you can usually return to your regular activities right away. To ease any discomfort, your dentist may suggest simple relief strategies like taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen, rinsing gently with warm salt water, and following your home care instructions for oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing carefully during this time is especially important, since good hygiene will help the gums heal and reduce the chances of infection or relapse.

Effectiveness of Scaling and Root Planing as a Treatment for Gum Disease

This treatment reduces gum inflammation and helps prevent tooth and bone loss by giving your gums a chance to heal and strengthen their hold around your teeth. Its long-term success depends on the thoroughness of the procedure itself, as well as your commitment to daily brushing and flossing, and keeping up with regular professional dental cleanings every three to four months. 

Finding the Best Dentist in Hillsborough for Scaling and Root Planing as Gum Disease Treatment and Prevention

Healthy gums are the foundation of a confident smile, and at Promenade Smiles in Hillsborough, we take that responsibility seriously. Our team uses advanced technology and proven techniques to treat gum disease effectively, while keeping your comfort at the center of every appointment. 

We understand that no two patients are the same, which is why we tailor our care to your unique needs. This may include thorough deep cleanings, personalized maintenance plans, or clear guidance on at-home care. 

Ready to protect your oral health and preserve your smile with state-of-the-art dentistry and a patient-focused approach from the best dentist in Hillsborough?