Scaling and Root Planing: The Deep Clean Your Gums Deserve
Gum health is just as important as the health of your teeth. If you’ve been told you need scaling and root planing (SRP), it means your dental team is helping you treat or prevent gum disease before it causes lasting damage.
What Exactly Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a type of non-surgical periodontal therapy that treats gingivitis and early to moderate periodontitis.
It involves two main steps:
1. Scaling – This removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from:
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The surface of your teeth
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Below the gumline, where regular cleaning can't reach
2. Root Planing – The roots of the teeth are smoothed to:
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Remove bacteria embedded in rough spots
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Help gums reattach to the teeth
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Reduce inflammation and gum pocket depth
Why Is S.R.P. Necessary?
Dental tartar (calcular deposits), which is a hardened dental plaque, can accumulate below the gumline. This buildup causes the gums to recede from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can thrive.
If these pockets deepen, it leads to:
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Gum inflammation and bleeding
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Bone loss around the teeth
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Tooth mobility or loss
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Persistent bad breath
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A higher risk of systemic health problem
Scaling and root planing helps reverse or stabilize these changes before they become irreversible.
Signs You Might Need Scaling and Root Planing
What Happens During the Procedure?
Your dentist may recommend SRP if you have:
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Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
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Swollen, red, or tender gums
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Persistent bad breath
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Gums pulling away from your teeth (gum recession)
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Loose or shifting teeth
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Deep gum pockets (typically over 4mm) seen in a dental exam
Even if you don’t feel any pain, gum disease can still be active. Regular check-ups are essential to catch it early.
The procedure is typically done in two or more visits, depending on the extent of the gum disease and the number of affected areas.
Here’s what to expect:
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Numbing the area with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort.
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Thorough scaling to remove all plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.
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Root planing to smooth the root surfaces and help gums reattach.
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In some cases, antibacterial rinses or localized antibiotics may be placed to reduce infection.
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You’ll be scheduled for a follow-up visit to check healing and possibly do additional cleaning if needed.
Does It Hurt?
Aftercare and
Healing Tips
Most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure, especially with anesthesia.
After treatment, you might feel:
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Mild gum tenderness
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Slight tooth sensitivity
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Temporary bleeding
These symptoms usually go away within a few days. Any discomfort is far less than the pain caused by untreated gum disease later on.
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Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
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Floss daily to prevent new buildup.
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Use any prescribed rinses or antibiotics exactly as instructed.
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
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Keep all scheduled maintenance cleanings.
Healing time varies, but most patients notice improved gum appearance and less bleeding within 1 to 2 weeks.
Are The Good Effects Of Scaling And Root Planing Permanent?
SRP removes the cause of the gum inflammation, but it’s not a one-time fix.
Gum disease is manageable and long-term success depends on:
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Consistent oral hygiene at home
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Regular professional cleanings (periodontal maintenance)
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Avoiding smoking, which delays healing and worsens gum disease
Benefits of S.R.P.
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Stops progression of gum disease.
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Reduces gum pocket depth.
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Prevents tooth and bone loss.
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Improves breath and oral cleanliness.
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May lower the risk of related health conditions (like heart disease and diabetes).
Take Control of Your Gum Health
It’s not just a deep cleaning. It’s the first step in saving your teeth and supporting your overall health.
At A. DENT, we provide gentle and personalized care to make the process smooth and stress-free.
If you’ve been told you need S.R.P., or if you're experiencing signs of gum disease, don’t wait!