Have you ever noticed a tinge of pink in the sink when you brush? Or struggled with bad breath that seems to have a life of its own? These aren't just minor inconveniences; they’re often your body's first warning signs of gum disease, an issue brewing just beneath the surface.
While most of us know about regular dental cleanings, sometimes a more serious problem requires a more intensive solution. If a standard cleaning is like a surface-level car wash, think of scaling and root planing as a complete, professional detailing for the foundation of your teeth.
It’s a therapeutic treatment designed to stop gum disease in its tracks and give your gums a fresh start. This Central Avenue Dental guide will walk you through everything you need to know—in a straightforward, human way—so you can feel confident and in control of your oral health.
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a serious dental condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. It starts off silently and may not cause pain at first, which is why many people don’t realize they have it until it’s advanced. Over time, untreated gum disease can lead to infections, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss.
The main cause of periodontal disease is plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on your teeth. If not properly removed through brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which inflames and damages your gums.
Factors like poor oral hygiene, smoking, stress, genetics, and even certain medications can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This causes red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. At this stage, the condition is still reversible. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis.
In this more serious stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria. These bacteria can destroy bone and connective tissue over time, threatening the stability of your teeth.
Beyond oral health, research shows that advanced gum disease is linked to broader health issues. These include heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. That’s why early detection and treatment are essential—not just for your smile but for your overall well-being.
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. It’s a deep cleaning treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, where regular brushing and dental cleanings can’t reach.
After scaling, the dentist smooths out the root surfaces—a process called root planing—which helps the gums reattach to the teeth and prevents further bacterial buildup.
This treatment is usually recommended when gum pockets exceed 4 millimeters in depth, bleeding is persistent, or early signs of bone loss appear. The goal is to stop the progression of gum disease and help your gums heal naturally.
How do you know if you might have a problem? Listen to your body. Key warning signs include:
Before starting the treatment, your dentist will examine your gums and take X-rays to assess bone levels. They’ll use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of your gum pockets and identify areas of concern. If the pockets are deep enough, the dentist may recommend doing the treatment in stages—usually one quadrant of your mouth at a time.
To ensure comfort, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. Some patients opt for sedation if they experience anxiety. The dentist or hygienist will use ultrasonic tools and manual instruments to remove the tartar and plaque.
After the scaling is complete, root planing is performed to smooth out any rough areas on the roots, helping the gums reattach and discouraging bacteria from returning.
After the treatment, it’s normal to experience some soreness, mild swelling, or tooth sensitivity. These effects typically fade within a few days. You may also notice a little bleeding, especially after brushing. Your dentist might recommend a saltwater rinse or a medicated mouthwash to reduce bacteria and promote healing.
In the days following treatment, it’s best to avoid hard or spicy foods that could irritate the area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently. Some patients are prescribed desensitizing toothpaste or antibiotics to support healing and prevent infection.
This treatment is highly effective in controlling and even reversing early gum disease. It removes the harmful bacteria and deposits that cause inflammation, giving your gums a chance to heal. As inflammation reduces, gum tissues reattach to the teeth and pockets become shallower.
You may also notice that your breath smells fresher and your mouth feels cleaner overall. With continued care and routine follow-up cleanings, scaling and root planing can help you avoid more invasive treatments like gum surgery or tooth extraction.
Regular cleanings every 3-4 months are crucial. Think of these visits as routine oil changes for your gums—preventing bigger issues later.
Consistency is your best friend here...
Stay away from:
Choose water, leafy greens, and lean proteins instead.
In cases where deep cleaning doesn’t fully resolve the problem, your dentist might suggest additional treatments. These can include surgical procedures like flap surgery to access deeper pockets or bone grafting to replace lost bone.
Antibiotic therapy may also be used alongside scaling and root planing to reduce infection. In some dental offices, laser-assisted therapy is offered as a less invasive option for targeting bacteria and promoting faster healing.
Both general dentists and dental hygienists at Central Avenue Dental are trained to perform scaling and root planing. However, for more advanced cases of periodontitis, a referral to a periodontist—a specialist in gum disease—might be necessary.
When choosing a provider, look for someone with experience in treating periodontal conditions, good patient reviews, and a modern dental facility that uses the latest tools and techniques.
The cost of scaling and root planing depends on how many areas of your mouth need treatment. Most dentists charge by quadrant—meaning one-fourth of your mouth at a time.
With dental insurance, the cost per quadrant may range from $100 to $200. Without insurance, the cost can rise to $200 to $400 or more per quadrant.
At Central Avenue Dental in Charlotte, NC, we offer scaling and root planing and teeth whitening with a focus on comfort, precision, and results. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel at ease—thanks in part to our therapy dog, Remi, who’s always ready with a tail wag to calm your nerves.
You can find us at 3410 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205, United States. We're open Monday through Wednesday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Thursday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Please note that we are closed Friday through Sunday. We use cutting-edge technology, digital diagnostics, and a gentle touch to ensure your dental treatment is both effective and comfortable.
If you’ve been told you have gum disease—or if you’re noticing the signs—don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
Periodontal scaling and root planing may sound technical, but at its core, it’s about restoring health, confidence, and comfort to your smile. Whether you're just noticing gum symptoms or have been advised to get deep cleaning, remember—you’re taking a proactive step toward lasting oral health.
And if you’re looking for a trusted, warm, and expert-driven experience, Central Avenue Dental is ready to welcome you with open arms (and a wagging tail). From compassionate care to cutting-edge technology, they’ve got everything your smile needs under one roof.
Each session usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour per quadrant. Most patients need two to four visits depending on the severity.
Most people feel no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Afterward, there may be mild soreness or sensitivity.
It’s best to wait at least two hours before eating. Stick to soft foods for the first day or two.
If you maintain excellent oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly, you may not need it again. But for some, especially those with chronic gum issues, periodic treatment may be necessary.
Yes, by removing deep plaque and bacteria, this treatment can significantly improve breath.
Yes, but be sure to inform your dentist of any medications or conditions so they can adjust the treatment accordingly.
Contact us today to beautify your smile and improve your oral health.
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