by Rana Baroudi
Dr. Baroudi is a Board Certified Periodontist. She has successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology oral and written examinations covering all phases of periodontal disease, its treatment and dental implants. She is also an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontology at UCSF where she enjoys teaching and lecturing on a bi-monthly basis.
Learn MoreTooth loss rarely happens suddenly. In most cases, it develops as a result of progressive gum disease that quietly damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth over time. Without proper treatment, this damage can become irreversible. Fortunately, scaling and root planing is a highly effective, non-surgical periodontal treatment that can stop gum disease in its tracks and help prevent tooth loss.
By addressing infection early and thoroughly, scaling and root planing plays a critical role in preserving natural teeth and maintaining long-term oral health.
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure designed to treat gum disease below the gumline. Unlike a routine dental cleaning, which focuses on the visible surfaces of the teeth, this periodontal therapy targets bacteria, plaque, and hardened tartar that accumulate beneath the gums.
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and deep periodontal pockets. Root planing smooths the root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to reattach and allowing the gums to heal and reattach more firmly to the teeth. This combination is essential for controlling infection and preventing further periodontal damage.
Gum disease begins when plaque and bacteria accumulate around the teeth and gums. As the infection progresses, the gums become inflamed and start to pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive.
If left untreated, this process can lead to chronic inflammation, gum recession, destruction of the supporting bone, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss. By removing the source of infection, scaling and root planing helps stop this destructive cycle before permanent damage occurs.
One of the most important benefits of scaling and root planing is its ability to halt the progression of periodontal disease. When bacteria and toxins are removed from beneath the gums, inflammation decreases, allowing the tissues to heal.
As healing occurs, gum pockets become shallower, gums reattach more tightly to the teeth, bone loss slows or stabilizes, and teeth regain better support. This stabilization is key to preventing tooth loss and preserving the natural dentition.
Many patients are surprised to learn they have gum disease because early stages often cause minimal discomfort. Bleeding gums, mild swelling, or persistent bad breath are easy symptoms to overlook.
Scaling and root planing is most effective when performed before periodontal disease becomes advanced. Early intervention reduces the need for surgical treatment and significantly improves long-term outcomes. A comprehensive periodontal evaluation helps determine whether deep cleaning alone is sufficient or if additional therapy is needed.
Although the term “deep cleaning” may sound intimidating, scaling and root planing is a well-tolerated procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used to ensure patient comfort.
Treatment may be completed in one or multiple visits, depending on the severity of gum disease. During the procedure, bacteria and tartar are removed from below the gumline, infected areas are thoroughly cleaned, and root surfaces are smoothed to promote healing. Mild soreness or sensitivity may occur afterward, but it usually resolves within a few days.
One of the most important ways scaling and root planing helps prevent tooth loss is by encouraging gum reattachment. When root surfaces are rough and coated with bacterial toxins, gums cannot heal properly.
By eliminating infection and smoothing the roots, the gums are able to tighten around the teeth, reduce pocket depth, and form a healthier barrier against bacteria. This improved attachment strengthens tooth support and reduces the risk of future periodontal damage.
Bone loss is one of the primary reasons teeth become loose and eventually fall out. Periodontal disease triggers an inflammatory response that destroys the bone supporting the teeth.
Scaling and root planing helps control this inflammation. While lost bone cannot always be fully restored without additional procedures, deep cleaning can stop or significantly slow further bone destruction. By stabilizing bone levels, this treatment plays a vital role in preserving teeth and avoiding extractions.
Scaling and root planing is not a one-time fix—it is part of a comprehensive periodontal care plan. After treatment, ongoing maintenance is essential to keep gum disease under control.
Patients are typically placed on a periodontal maintenance schedule that includes more frequent professional cleanings, monitoring of gum pocket depths, and ongoing evaluation of bone levels. This proactive approach allows changes to be identified early, before tooth loss occurs.
Scaling and root planing is recommended for patients who have bleeding, swollen, or tender gums, have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, show signs of gum recession or bone loss, want to preserve their natural teeth, or are preparing for dental implants or other restorative treatments. Healthy gums are essential not only for natural teeth but also for the long-term success of restorations.
Periodontal disease requires advanced training to diagnose and manage effectively. As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Rana Baroudi has extensive expertise in treating gum disease and preventing tooth loss.
At Cambrian Periodontics and Dental Implants, scaling and root planing is performed with precision and individualized care, ensuring patients receive effective treatment while protecting their long-term oral health.
Tooth loss is not an inevitable part of aging. In many cases, it can be prevented with timely periodontal care. Scaling and root planing offers a powerful, non-surgical way to control gum disease, stabilize teeth, and preserve your smile.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to undergo deep cleaning, early intervention can make a lasting difference. With expert periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance, your natural teeth can remain healthy and functional for years to come.
