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Home About Us What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?
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What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?


Posted on 5/15/2025 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants
A dentist showing a female patient her dental X-ray results on a screen, discussing treatment options during an exam.Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is essential to your overall well-being. Brushing and flossing regularly helps, but sometimes it’s not enough. If you have gum disease, you may need a deeper cleaning than you can get at home. That’s where scaling and root planing come in.

What is scaling and root planing?


Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning treatment for your teeth. It removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below your gumline, where your regular brushing and flossing cannot reach. This helps to:

•  Reduce inflammation and swelling of your gums
•  Stop gum bleeding and infection
•  Prevent further gum recession and bone loss
•  Improve the appearance of your smile
•  Reduce the risk of losing teeth

How is scaling and root planing performed?


Scaling and root planing are typically performed by a dental hygienist or a periodontist. The procedure may be done numbed with local anesthesia. Your mouth is thoroughly examined and then a special tool is used to remove plaque and tartar from your tooth surfaces and below your gumline in the periodontal pocket.

The root surface of your teeth will be smoothed to prevent further bacteria buildup and encourage healing. This may require several appointments depending on the severity of gum disease and the number of teeth that require deep-cleaning.

What are the benefits?


Scaling and root planing offers many benefits for both periodontal and overall health:

•  Gum disease treatment: This is the main benefit, as scaling and root planing can effectively stop the progression of gum disease. In its earlier stage (gingivitis), it may even help eliminate it completely.
•  Prevents heart disease: Research suggests a connection between gum disease and heart disease. By removing bacteria from below your gum line, scaling and root planing can reduce your risk of developing heart problems.
•  Improved oral hygiene: Deep cleaning helps remove bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresher and cleaner for a longer period.
•  Prevents tooth loss: Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, but with scaling and root planing, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums for years to come.
•  Enhanced appearance: By removing tartar, scaling can make your teeth appear whiter and brighter, improving your overall smile aesthetics and boosting your confidence.

If you are concerned about your gum health or have been experiencing symptoms like bleeding, redness or swollen gums, talk to your dentist about the potential benefit of scaling and root planing.

Is scaling and root planing for everyone?


While it is a safe and effective procedure for most adults, there may be some instances when scaling and root planing are not suitable. This includes pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain medical conditions, and people taking medications that may affect bleeding.

Your dental professional will assess your individual situation to determine if scaling and root planing are right for you and discuss any alternative options available.

Conclusion


Scaling and root planing is an essential procedure for treating gum disease and maintaining overall oral health. By removing plaque and bacteria, it can prevent further damage, improve the health of your gums and teeth, and even reduce the risk of developing other health issues.

If you have any questions about scaling and root planing, or if you are looking to schedule a consultation with a dentist or periodontist, please contact our clinic.

Scholes Periodontics & Implants in Chandler, AZ
Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Dr. Scholes
595 N Dobson Rd B#34
Chandler, AZ 85224


O: (480) 786-0940
F: (480) 786-5694

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Scholes Periodontics and Implants, 595 N Dobson Rd #34, Chandler, AZ 85224 / (480) 786-0940 / scholesperio.com / 6/20/2025 / Key Phrases: Dental Implants Chandler AZ /