If it’s been a long time since you last saw a dentist, you may have heavy buildup on your teeth. The first step in getting your oral health back on track is to completely remove plaque and tartar above and below your gums, which may involve a specialized type of dental cleaning called scaling and root planing.
If your dentist has recommended scaling and root planing, you might be feeling unsure or even a little nervous. That’s totally normal, and at Imagine Dental, we always want to help you feel confident making fully informed decisions about your care.
To help you better understand what to expect with a deep teeth cleaning in Phoenix or Ahwatukee, here are answers to seven of the most common questions we hear about scaling and root planing.
1. What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
To understand scaling and root planing, it’s important to understand how gum disease develops, which starts with plaque. Plaque is a sticky buildup created by bacteria on the teeth. If plaque is not removed completely with your daily brushing and flossing routine, it absorbs minerals like calcium from your saliva and hardens (calcifies).
You may know this hard buildup as tartar, but dentists call it calculus. Bacterial plaque and calculus can irritate the gums and cause them to lose their attachment to the tooth roots, creating a pocket where more bacteria can build up under the gums. Left untreated, this process can start to damage the bone sockets that hold the teeth in place, too.
Scaling and root planing (often called deep cleaning) is a special dental procedure that treats gum disease by thoroughly removing plaque and calculus from beneath the gum line.
- Scaling removes plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces, including tooth roots where the gums are no longer properly attached.
- Root planing smooths the root surface to prevent more bacteria from sticking to it and provides a healthy surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Scaling and root planing is an important step in stopping gum disease from getting worse and allowing your mouth to start healing. In many cases, an effective deep cleaning and consistent maintenance may be enough to fully resolve your gum disease. In others, we may recommend additional procedures to help restore your oral health.
2. Does Scaling and Root Planing Really Work?
Yes! Scaling and root planing is a proven and effective treatment for mild to moderate periodontal disease (gum disease). It helps to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding gums, and prevent further damage to your gums and bone.
However, scaling and root planing isn’t a one-and-done procedure. To achieve true long-term success, you’ll need to stick to the recommended hygiene schedule, which may mean returning to have your teeth cleaned every few months at first. With proper follow-up care and good oral hygiene at home, most patients see a lasting improvement in their gum health after SRP.
3. Is Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?
It might be, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with severe gingivitis or early-to-moderate periodontitis. However, not everyone needs a deep cleaning. All dental cleanings should remove plaque and calculus below the gums, but scaling and root planing specifically addresses areas with deep gum pockets or heavy buildup below the gums.
Signs that you may need scaling and root planing include:
- Significant bleeding when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Blue-red gum tissue
- Loose teeth or changes to your bite
- Bone loss on your dental X-rays
- Deep pockets forming between your teeth and gums
Our team will measure your gums at your first visit, and periodically at your routine cleaning appointments. If we notice any deeper gum pockets, we’ll talk to you about the best way to address them.
It’s important to understand that, left untreated, gum disease is one of the most common causes of tooth loss. It can also put serious strain on your overall health and may increase your risks for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, pancreatitis, certain types of cancer, arthritis, and other issues. SRP is a key part of protecting your smile and preventing more serious problems.
4. How Long Does Scaling and Root Planing Take?
It depends on your unique needs. Some patients only need localized SRP for one or two teeth, while others may need full-mouth treatment. Each session usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Because it’s a specialized type of cleaning, we usually split full mouth scaling and root planing into two or four visits so we can focus on one section of your mouth at a time. This allows us to do a thorough job without making the process overwhelming for you.
It also gives us time to numb each area for your comfort. Because your teeth may feel a bit tender after a session, splitting it up into sections also ensures you’ll be able to eat comfortably on the other side until your teeth feel normal again.
We’ll let you know what to expect after your initial evaluation.
5. How Painful Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Most patients find the procedure very manageable. Depending on your needs, we’ll use numbing gel or local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during treatment. We can also provide sedation options if you feel extremely anxious, have very sensitive teeth, or want to combine your SRP with other procedures the same day for convenience.
Afterward, your gums might feel a little sore, tender, or sensitive, especially when eating or brushing. These symptoms usually go away within a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed.
6. How Is the Recovery Time After Deep Cleaning?
Recovery is generally quick and simple. Your gums may feel a little sore or swollen for a day or two, and you might notice slight bleeding when brushing or flossing at first. Most people return to their normal routine and diet without any downtime at all.
However, if your teeth feel sore after your cleaning, we recommend:
- Eating soft foods for a day or two
- Using a gentle toothbrush and warm saltwater rinses
- Avoiding tobacco or alcohol while healing
Depending on your situation, we may provide an antimicrobial rinse to boost your healing process. Be sure to use it as recommended for best results! Your gums should start to feel healthier and tighter around your teeth within a week or two. If you have any lingering or worsening pain after your scaling and root planing in Arizona, give us a call to ensure everything is healing well!
7. Do Gums Grow Back After Scaling and Root Planing?
Gums don’t regrow in the way you might hope, but SRP can help your gums reconnect more tightly to your teeth and reduce pocket depth. This means less space for bacteria to hide and a better chance at stopping gum disease from progressing.
If you have gum recession, you may need other procedures such as gum grafting to restore their appropriate position. We’ll let you know what to expect at your initial consultation.
Give Your Smile a Fresh Start with Comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment in Phoenix and Ahwatukee!
At Imagine Dental, we’re committed to helping you take control of your oral health, no matter where you’re starting from. Whether you’re experiencing bleeding gums, sensitivity, or early signs of gum disease, our gentle team is here to help you feel better fast.
Get in touch with our team to schedule your gum disease treatment in Phoenix or Ahwatukee, and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile!
