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 MoreIf you’ve ever been told you need a deep cleaning for your gums, chances are your periodontist recommended a procedure called scaling and root planing. While the name may sound a little intimidating, this non-surgical treatment is one of the most effective ways to combat gum disease and preserve your natural teeth. Unfortunately, it’s also surrounded by myths and misconceptions that cause unnecessary worry for many patients.
Dr. Rana Baroudi, a Harvard-trained periodontist based in San Jose, is passionate about patient education. She believes that understanding your treatment is just as important as receiving it. In this article, she helps set the record straight by debunking some of the most common myths about periodontal scaling and root planing, and sharing the facts that every patient should know.
Let’s begin with the basics. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease (periodontitis). Unlike a standard dental cleaning that focuses on the surfaces of the teeth, this treatment targets areas below the gumline where harmful bacteria accumulate. It involves two key steps:
This non-surgical treatment is often the first line of defense when early to moderate gum disease is detected.
Fact: Thanks to local anesthesia and gentle techniques, the procedure is typically very comfortable.
One of the most persistent myths about scaling and root planing is that it’s painful. In reality, the treatment is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area being cleaned. Most patients report only mild pressure during the procedure, and minimal discomfort afterward. Some even find it more comfortable than a traditional dental cleaning because the numbing removes any sensitivity during treatment.
Dr. Baroudi uses modern instruments and a gentle touch to ensure her patients feel at ease throughout the procedure. If you’re particularly anxious, additional sedation options are also available to help you relax.
Fact: Gum disease has many causes, and even people with good hygiene can benefit from this treatment.
While poor brushing and flossing habits do increase the risk of gum disease, it’s not the only factor. Genetics, hormones, medical conditions like diabetes, medications, and lifestyle choices like smoking can all contribute to the development of periodontitis.
Even patients who take great care of their teeth may find themselves needing periodontal scaling and root planing if other risk factors are present. Dr. Baroudi customizes each treatment plan based on the unique needs and health history of every individual, not just their brushing habits.
Fact: Scaling and root planing is an important first step—but ongoing maintenance is key.
While scaling and root planing can significantly reduce inflammation, remove harmful bacteria, and help the gums heal, it isn’t a cure. Gum disease is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. That means follow-up visits, excellent home care, and in many cases, periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months to prevent bacteria from recolonizing.
Dr. Baroudi works closely with her patients to develop a sustainable oral health plan after treatment, ensuring that the results last and future damage is minimized.
Fact: When performed by a skilled periodontist, the procedure is completely safe and beneficial to your oral health.
Some people worry that deep cleaning might damage their teeth or make their gums recede. The truth is that any appearance of recession after scaling and root planing is not caused by the treatment—it’s the result of inflammation going down and swollen gum tissue returning to a healthy state.
This treatment is specifically designed to protect your teeth by removing the dangerous bacteria and hardened calculus that cause gum detachment, bone loss, and tooth mobility. When performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Baroudi, the procedure is not only safe—it’s essential for preserving your smile.
Fact: Gum disease often progresses silently, without pain or obvious symptoms.
One of the most dangerous aspects of periodontal disease is that it often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. You might not feel pain, but there may be early warning signs like:
By the time discomfort sets in, the damage may already be significant. That’s why regular checkups and timely treatment with scaling and root planing can stop the disease in its tracks before it worsens.
Fact: While good home care is critical, it cannot remove tartar and bacteria below the gumline once periodontal pockets form.
Tartar (also called calculus) is hardened plaque that can’t be removed with regular brushing or flossing. Once it forms beneath the gumline, only professional tools and techniques can remove it. That’s where scaling and root planing comes in.
Even if you begin brushing and flossing diligently after gum disease develops, the pockets of infection need to be thoroughly cleaned and smoothed by a professional. Dr. Baroudi combines this clinical care with patient education to ensure you can maintain a healthier mouth long after the procedure.
Fact: In the long run, treating gum disease early is far more affordable than dealing with tooth loss and advanced treatment later.
It’s easy to see scaling and root planing as a cost, but it’s more accurate to see it as an investment—one that protects you from far more serious (and expensive) procedures down the line. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
Most dental insurance plans cover all or part of the cost for periodontal scaling and root planing, especially when medically necessary. Dr. Baroudi’s team is happy to help you understand your coverage and explore flexible financing options if needed.
Scaling and root planing is typically completed over one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the condition and how many areas need treatment. After numbing the area, Dr. Baroudi will use special instruments to carefully remove tartar and smooth the root surfaces.
After the procedure, you may experience some tenderness or sensitivity for a few days, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and a gentle diet. As your gums heal, you’ll notice improvements in inflammation, bleeding, and overall gum health.
Dr. Baroudi may recommend follow-up appointments to evaluate your progress, and she will work with you to develop a personalized home care routine to maintain your results.
As a periodontist with years of experience and a commitment to the highest standards of care, Dr. Rana Baroudi specializes in advanced procedures like scaling and root planing in San Jose. Her patient-first philosophy ensures that each treatment is tailored, comfortable, and rooted in prevention and education.
She takes time to explain every step, answer your questions, and help you understand the importance of gum health in your overall wellness. From advanced diagnostics to gentle techniques, her goal is to give you a healthier smile for life.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults—but it doesn’t have to be. Scaling and root planing is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment that helps control infection, reduce inflammation, and support long-term oral health.
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease or are showing early warning signs, don’t let fear or misinformation delay your care. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.
