Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is a careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from deep periodontal pockets and to smooth the tooth root to remove bacteria and their toxins.

After completion, you will be scheduled for another visit to see how your gums have responded to this treatment by remeasuring the depth of your pockets. If they have not improved sufficiently, more active treatment may be needed.

Most periodontists would agree that after scaling and root planing, many patients do not require any further active treatment. However, most patients will require ongoing periodontal maintenance therapy to sustain health.