Scaling and Root Planing
Suffering from moderate to severe gum disease?
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Stop the infection in its tracks with this advanced deep cleaning procedure.
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Scaling and root planing (SRP) is one of the most common treatments for early to advanced periodontal disease. Commonly referred to as a deep cleaning, this non-surgical procedure involves reaching beyond the gum line to remove plaque buildup and promote healing.
By catching signs of gum disease early on and taking preventive action, Dr. Hansen will help you maintain a clean and healthy mouth for life.
Deep cleaning vs. routine cleaning
Routine cleaning – Recommended every 6 months for those who have no history of gum disease. This routine procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup around and between your teeth and slightly under your gum line.
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Regular brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings are the key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
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Deep cleaning – Necessary when bacteria has spread further than your gum line, creating a deep space between the teeth and gums (called pockets). These pockets are a sign of gum disease and steps should be taken to eliminate them as soon as possible.
With a deep cleaning, our hygienist will scale and plane your teeth deeper below the gumline to remove bacteria and remove buildup and give pockets the chance to heal and reattach.
Do I need periodontal scaling?
Deep cleaning is necessary when bacteria has become so pervasive that it cannot be removed using at-home and routine dental cleaning procedures.
In fact, performing a routine cleaning when a deep cleaning is necessary is counter-productive and risks disturbing and releasing built-up bacteria into your bloodstream.
We will most likely recommend a periodontal scaling and root planing procedure if you have:
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Extensive plaque and tartar buildup
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4-5 millimeter pockets of bacteria
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Other signs of gum disease
Additionally, if you have a history of gum disease, a scaling and root planing procedure is often used in place of routine cleanings as a preventive measure.
What to expect from a scaling & root planing procedure
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We’ll use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and ensure your comfort.
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Using high-tech scaling & root planing instruments, we’ll clean the surface and roots of your teeth, removing the plaque and tartar that have collected.
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Patients often experience some soreness or sensitivity around the gums after scaling and root planing. This discomfort usually subsides in about four hours.
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Depending on your needs, we may recommend completing your deep cleaning over the course of two or more visits.