Root Scaling and Planing Atlanta, GA
Root scaling and planing remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria to improve gum health. Many patients think of gum disease as a minor nuisance. However, untreated gum infections can put your health at risk. Fortunately, a root scaling and planing treatment can help.
Root scaling and root planing are available at Downtown Atlanta Dentistry in Atlanta and the surrounding area. Our team provides in-depth dental cleanings to freshen your mouth. We offer the care patients need to combat stubborn gum disease. Call us at (404) 999-1407 to learn more.
Understanding Root Scaling and Planing
Scaling and planing help restore a patient's teeth and gums. The dental team removes sticky plaque and tartar from the surface of teeth. During a traditional dental cleaning, the team removes debris above the gum line, but the team goes one step further with root scaling. Dental providers remove plaque and tartar. below the gumline and along the root of the tooth.
Scaling can clear up advanced gum disease, sometimes known as periodontitis. This condition occurs when bacteria become trapped along the gumline. Patients with periodontitis may develop sore, inflamed, and infected gums. Those who do not receive treatment for gum disease may develop long-term health problems. Researchers have linked gum disease to heart disease, dementia, and some forms of cancer. Fortunately, root scaling and planing resolve gum disease. This procedure can heal the gums and improve the patient's health.
“Patients with periodontitis may develop sore, inflamed, and infected gums.”
When To Receive Root Scaling and Planing
We recommend root scaling and root planing to combat chronic periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Patients with receding gums can also benefit from this treatment. During a routine dental examination, we will assess the patient's gum line and periodontal pockets. Deep pockets may indicate signs of periodontal disease and necessitate root scaling or planing.
Without root scaling or root planing treatment, people with periodontal disease can suffer additional oral and overall health problems. Eventually, the bacteria from diseased gums can lead to receding gums, tooth loss, bone loss, or loose teeth. Root scaling and planing can help repair some of the damage and prevent further gum damage. Additional treatments may be necessary in cases where the periodontal pockets have become deeper.
“Without root scaling or root planing treatment, people with periodontal disease can suffer additional oral and overall health problems.”
Preparing for Root Scaling and Planing
Dental providers may divide root scaling and planing into two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist cleans one side of the patient's mouth. They might save the other side of the mouth for the patient's second visit. Splitting the procedures up may help reduce patient discomfort. Before starting treatment, the dental team provides a numbing medication. Next, they remove plaque and tartar along the base of the teeth. The dental provider works between teeth and below the gum line, too. They may use a manual tool like a metal scraper, or they may opt for an ultrasonic instrument.
The dental provider works in vertical, horizontal, and circular motions to remove debris along each side of the tooth. The provider also performs root planing to smooth the surface of the tooth. Planing can prevent gum disease relapses. By smoothing the teeth, the provider eliminates places where bacteria and plaque can hide. Finally, the provider flushes away debris and bacteria. They may provide an antiseptic rinse or antibiotics to help the patient's mouth heal. The dental team also uses gentle pressure to help gums reattach to the teeth.
“By smoothing the teeth, the provider eliminates places where bacteria and plaque can hide.”
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Benefits and Drawbacks of Root Scaling Treatment
One of the biggest benefits of root scaling and root planing is that it helps prevent further gum disease. After treatment, patients will have cleaner mouths with fewer gum problems and cavities. Healthier gums feel less tender and will not bleed while flossing or brushing.
Root scaling and planing may not be the best treatment option for everyone. Patients who do not commit to excellent oral hygiene habits may not see as many benefits in the future. Additionally, immunocompromised individuals or patients with severely receding gums may not be candidates for the treatment.
“One of the biggest benefits of root scaling and root planing is that it helps prevent further gum disease.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. When are root scaling and root planing necessary?
Q. What are the benefits and drawbacks of root scaling?
Q. What aftercare should occur after treatment?
Q. What are the keys to understanding root scaling and planing?
Q. How should I prepare for root scaling and planing?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the symptoms of gum recession?
Q. Is increased sensitivity to temperature a sign that endodontic surgery is necessary?
Treatment Aftercare
Gum sensitivity is normal during the first few days after this deep cleaning treatment. The gums may be tender, swollen, and even bleed. We recommend that patients gently brush their teeth and use wax-coated floss. They should also periodically rinse their mouth with warm salt water or an oral rinse to prevent infection.
A follow-up appointment is necessary so that we can check for gum improvement. If the gums are firm and pink again and the pockets are smaller, patients may not need further treatment. People can then schedule regular dental check-ups to maintain gum and oral health.
“If the gums are firm and pink again and the pockets are smaller, patients may not need further treatment.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is root scaling and planing painful?
A. Dental providers use numbing medication to prevent patients from feeling discomfort during treatment. Afterward, patients may experience sore or tender gums. However, these side effects usually disappear within a few days.
Q. How long will it take for my gums to recover?
A. Most patients make a full recovery within 1-2 weeks. Keep in mind that some patients may need frequent scaling and planing. Annual or biannual procedures can prevent gum disease from returning. Our team can determine whether you need ongoing treatment.
Q. How long does the procedure last?
A. Root scaling and planing usually take 1-2 hours. The dental provider may perform the treatment in one visit, or they may split the procedure into two stages. Our team can determine the right treatment schedule for you.
Q. What are the risks of root scaling and planing?
A. Most patients are eligible for root scaling and planing procedures. However, this treatment may not be right for patients with bleeding disorders or compromised immune systems. Patients with severe tooth decay or oral infections may benefit from a different treatment. Our team can determine whether you are a candidate for root scaling and planing.
Q. How can I know if I need this procedure?
A. Root scaling and planing can treat an advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Periodontitis symptoms may include:
- Swollen gums
- Red or purplish gums
- Gum bleeding
- Bad breath
- Visible pus along the gumline
Untreated periodontitis can result in tooth loss, receding gums, and widespread infection. Researchers have also found that patients with periodontitis are at a higher risk for heart disease and dementia. Treatment helps patients resolve gum disease and other issues that may occur from gum disease.
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Periodontic Terminology
Call Us Today
If you have gum disease, root scaling and planing can help reverse this issue. Our team at Downtown Atlanta Dentistry can help. Call us today at 404-999-1407 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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