Scaling & Root Planing
Stop Gum Disease Before It Progresses
Scaling and root planing is a highly effective non-surgical periodontal treatment designed to eliminate infection and restore gum health. At Dr. Strutz Periodontics, this deep cleaning procedure removes harmful bacteria below the gum line, helping your gums heal and protecting the foundation that supports your teeth.
By treating gum disease early, scaling and root planing help prevent bone loss, reduce inflammation, and preserve your natural smile.
What Is Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, commonly called a deep cleaning, is a periodontal therapy used to treat gingivitis and periodontitis when bacteria have accumulated beneath the gums.
This non-surgical approach often stops periodontal disease progression and restores healthier gum tissue.
The treatment includes two essential steps:
Scaling
Removes plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gum line where brushing and flossing cannot reach.
Root Planing
Smooths the tooth root surfaces to remove remaining bacteria and create a clean environment that allows the gums to reattach to the teeth and heal properly.
How We Diagnose the Need for Treatment
Before recommending scaling and root planing, Dr. William Strutz performs a comprehensive periodontal evaluation to determine the severity of gum disease.
Based on these findings, we develop a personalized treatment plan focused on stabilizing your oral health.
Your examination may include:
Detailed gum and tissue assessment
Periodontal pocket measurements
Digital X-rays to evaluate bone support
Review of symptoms and oral health history
Common signs that may indicate the need for scaling and root planing include:
Bleeding gums
Swollen or tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Gum recession
Deep periodontal pockets
Tooth mobility or shifting teeth
Scaling and root planing are typically completed over one or two appointments depending on the extent of infection.
Treatment generally includes:
- Local anesthesia for comfort
- Gentle removal of plaque and tartar deposits
- Root surface smoothing to discourage bacterial reattachment
- Antimicrobial therapy when needed to enhance healing
Following treatment, the gums gradually tighten around the teeth as inflammation decreases and infection resolves.
Many patients experience significant improvement without the need for surgical procedures when gum disease is treated at this stage.
Treatment Options
Why Early Treatment Matters
Treating periodontal disease early helps protect both your oral health and overall wellness.
Scaling and root planing can:
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
- Prevent progression to advanced periodontitis
- Lower the risk of tooth loss
- Improve comfort while eating and brushing
- Support long-term stability of teeth and dental restorations
Early periodontal therapy is often the most conservative and cost-effective way to preserve your smile.
Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation