Root Scaling and Planing

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that goes beyond a regular teeth cleaning to treat gum disease. During scaling, we remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, where bacteria accumulate and cause infection. Root planing then smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and allowing your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth. At San Juan Family Dentistry, we enhance this procedure with advanced laser technology to eliminate bacteria more effectively, for a more comfortable experience and faster healing.

Signs You May Need This Treatment

• Deep gum pockets: When the space between your teeth and gums deepens, it creates pockets where bacteria thrive and regular cleaning cannot reach.
• Persistent gum inflammation: Gums that stay red, swollen, or bleed easily during brushing despite good home care may signal a deep bacterial infection.
• Bone loss: X-rays showing bone deterioration around your teeth indicate advanced gum disease that needs treatment to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
• Persistent bad breath: Chronic bad breath that does not improve with brushing or mouthwash often signals bacterial buildup below the gumline.

Untreated gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Comprehensive assessment: Dr. Leila begins with a thorough exam to assess the extent of gum disease, then applies local anesthesia for your comfort.
• Comfortable treatment: Using specialized instruments and precise laser technology, we carefully remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline and tooth surfaces.
• Root planing: We smooth the root surfaces of your teeth to eliminate rough spots where bacteria gather, creating a clean foundation for your gums to reattach.
• Laser treatment: Our advanced laser technology targets remaining bacteria and stimulates tissue regeneration, promoting faster healing and less discomfort after treatment.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

This deep cleaning halts the progression of gum disease and helps prevent tooth loss by eliminating the infection that causes gum inflammation, allowing your gums to heal and reattach for improved stability. You will notice fresher breath as the bacterial source of odor is removed, and treating gum disease can also reduce your risk of related health complications, including heart disease and diabetes. Our laser technology helps make treatment more comfortable, with faster healing and more thorough bacterial removal than traditional methods.

Why Choose San Juan Family Dentistry

• Advanced laser technology that eliminates bacteria more effectively, reduces discomfort, and promotes faster healing than traditional scaling methods.
• Experienced, gentle care from Dr. Leila, who ensures thorough treatment in a relaxing, positive environment.
• A comprehensive focus on gum health, addressing the root cause of gum disease and educating you on maintaining healthy gums between visits.
• Flexible payment options, including working with your insurance and offering CareCredit financing.

Do not wait on gum disease. Patients in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Capistrano Beach, and San Clemente can schedule a scaling and root planing consultation with Dr. Leila by calling (949) 240-6888.