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 MoreGum disease is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults today. When plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline, the supporting structures of the teeth can become inflamed and infected. Without treatment, this inflammation can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Fortunately, periodontal therapy offers an effective way to stop the progression of gum disease before it becomes more severe.
Two essential components of nonsurgical periodontal treatment are scaling and root planing. Although they are often performed together, they are not the same procedure—and each plays a unique role in restoring gum health. Understanding the differences between scaling and root planing can help you feel more informed and confident when discussing treatment options with your periodontist.
At Dr. Rana Baroudi’s periodontal practice in San Jose, comprehensive care is built on precision, comfort, and education. Whether you need maintenance therapy or more advanced treatment, our goal is to help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain long-term gum health. For more about this treatment, visit our page on periodontal scaling and root planing.
Before exploring the differences, it’s important to understand why scaling and root planing are recommended. Gum disease develops when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—hardens into tartar that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. This buildup leads to inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontal disease when not properly treated.
Scaling and root planing work together to:
These procedures provide the foundation for healthy gums and can prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Scaling is the first step in cleaning below the gumline. It involves removing plaque and tartar from both the visible portion of the tooth and the root surfaces beneath the gums.
Using specialized instruments, the periodontist or hygienist carefully removes hardened deposits from:
Scaling can be performed manually, with ultrasonic instruments, or with a combination of both. The goal is to eliminate irritants that cause inflammation and infection.
Scaling is essential because it:
Scaling is particularly effective in the early stages of gum disease, where inflammation is still reversible.
Root planing is a deeper, more detailed cleaning that goes beyond scaling. It targets the root surfaces of the teeth, smoothing them to prevent bacteria from reattaching and to encourage the gums to heal properly.
During root planing, the periodontist smooths rough or uneven areas on the tooth roots. These small irregularities can trap bacteria and make it easier for plaque to accumulate. By smoothing the roots, the gums can reattach more firmly, reducing pocket depth and preventing reinfection.
Root planing is critical for:
This stage of treatment is essential for patients with moderate to advanced periodontal disease.
Although scaling and root planing are often performed together during the same visit, they serve different purposes. Understanding the differences helps patients know what to expect during periodontal treatment.
Together, they form a comprehensive treatment known as deep cleaning, which is essential for halting the progression of gum disease.
Understanding the process helps relieve anxiety and prepares patients for what’s ahead.
Your periodontist will evaluate:
Local anesthesia is often used to ensure comfort during deeper cleaning.
The appointment may be completed in one or multiple visits depending on:
Scaling is usually performed first, followed by root planing. Treatment is meticulous and aims to create the conditions needed for healthy tissue healing.
Mild tenderness is normal for a day or two, but most patients resume normal activities quickly. Following treatment, your periodontist provides personalized instructions that may include:
Improvement in gum health typically begins within a few days.
Scaling and root planing are the first steps in restoring gum health, but long-term maintenance is essential. Most patients require periodontal maintenance every three to four months to prevent disease from returning.
A consistent maintenance plan helps:
Skipping maintenance visits increases the risk of reinfection and more advanced periodontal disease.
Scaling and root planing provide the foundation for restoring and maintaining gum health, but ongoing care is essential for lasting success. This includes:
Patients who follow a strong home-care routine and attend regular periodontal maintenance have the best outcomes.
If you’re experiencing signs of gum disease—such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession—scaling and root planing may be the right solution for restoring your oral health. To learn more about how this treatment works or to schedule an appointment, visit our page on periodontal scaling and root planing.
Early intervention leads to healthier gums, improved comfort, and a stronger, more stable smile.
