Scaling & Root Planing
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Periodontal Services
Scaling & Root Planing
The first phase of treatment for periodontal (gum) disease typically involves a deep professional cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. This non-surgical treatment is designed to eliminate the underlying causes of gum inflammation — including plaque, tartar (calculus), and harmful bacteria.
Scaling and root planing may be recommended as an independent treatment or as a preventive measure to stop the progression of gum disease. It is commonly performed for patients experiencing gingivitis or moderate to advanced periodontal disease.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Before recommending treatment, Dr. Michael Strassberg, DDS, Dr. Juliana Ko, DMD, or Dr. Milita Borguet, DMD will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health. This evaluation may include digital X-rays and a detailed visual assessment of your gums and teeth.
Depending on factors such as gum condition, pocket depth, tartar buildup, and the stage of periodontal disease, scaling and root planing may be advised. Our skilled dental hygiene team routinely performs this procedure and is certified to administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.
Scaling
Scaling focuses on removing plaque and hardened tartar from the tooth surfaces, especially below the gum line along the root surfaces. Specialized instruments, including ultrasonic scalers, are used to effectively eliminate buildup.
Ultrasonic technology also allows for irrigation beneath the gums, which may include the delivery of antimicrobial solutions to reduce harmful bacteria and promote healing.
Root Planing
Root planing smooths the root surfaces of the teeth by removing contaminated cementum and surface dentin that harbor bacteria, toxins, and tartar. By smoothing the root surface, the gums are better able to reattach to the teeth, supporting healing and helping to prevent future bacterial accumulation.
Additional Antimicrobial Therapy
In some cases, antibiotic therapy or antimicrobial rinses may be recommended to further control bacterial growth responsible for periodontal disease. Following scaling and root planing, Dr. Michael Strassberg, DDS, Dr. Juliana Ko, DMD, or Dr. Milita Borguet, DMD, or a hygienist may place localized antibiotic medication within periodontal pockets to reduce infection and encourage proper healing.
When deep gum pockets are present, it can be challenging to thoroughly eliminate plaque and tartar through non-surgical methods alone. In such situations, surgical treatment may be necessary to restore optimal periodontal health.
Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing
Successful treatment provides several important benefits:
Prevention of Disease Progression
Scaling and root planing help halt the advancement of gum disease by eliminating harmful bacteria. Research indicates that bacteria from periodontal infections can enter the bloodstream and potentially impact overall health, including cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Removing these bacteria supports both oral and systemic health.
Protection Against Tooth Loss
Healthy gum pockets typically measure 3mm or less in depth. As pocket depth increases, bacteria thrive and trigger chronic inflammation, which can damage gum tissue and underlying bone. This destruction may eventually lead to tooth loss. Deep cleaning reduces pocket depth and lowers this risk.
Improved Oral Health & Freshness
In addition to improving gum health, scaling and root planing help reduce bad breath caused by trapped bacteria and food debris. Surface stains may also be removed during the process, contributing to a cleaner, brighter smile.
Contact Us
- Mainline Dental Arts LLC 110 N Essex Ave, Narberth, PA 19072, United States
Working Hours
- MON - WED : 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Thursday : 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
- FRI, SAT & SUN : Closed
