Scaling and Root Planing in San Diego, CA
Have a severe case of gum disease that needs immediate attention? Visit our dental clinic, which provides scaling and root planing near you. The procedure is also known as deep cleaning and helps eliminate plaque and tartar below the gum line. This cleaning is more thorough than regular dental cleaning and is important in preventing the patient’s gum disease advancement.
Regular Dental Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning
It’s advised for patients to come in for a regular dental cleaning once every six months. Deep cleanings are more thorough and are therefore only recommended when patients have advanced gum disease. Having your teeth professionally cleaned at a dental clinic is great for preventing potential dental problems and can help your teeth appear healthier. These teeth cleanings can also help fix bad breath since it removes plaque and tartar, which harbor the bacteria responsible for it. Making sure you’re proactive about keeping your teeth healthy will do wonders for your oral health, as gum disease, when left untreated, will eventually lead to tooth loss. We recommend coming in for a routine check-up where Dr. Shervin can better recommend the frequency of teeth cleanings that best suit your circumstance.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Scaling and root planing is recommended only for patients with advanced gum disease caused by plaque build-up and tartar below the gum line. To reduce your risks of gum disease, you’ll want to ensure that you’re correctly brushing your teeth and are sticking to a good dental regimen. Changing your diet and minimizing your intake of sweet and sugary foods will also greatly reduce your risks of gum disease.
By taking the proper steps to care for your teeth, you’ll not only be in better overall health but can prevent a host of health problems from arising. We recommend anyone looking for reliable dental services in San Diego visit our dental clinic. Dr. Shervin, our dentist, takes pride in delivering reliable dental services when patients need them. Arrange your next appointment at bliss dental arts today.
FAQ's
What is scaling and root planing and why is it recommended?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes hardened plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces. It’s recommended when gum pockets deepen and traditional cleanings aren’t enough to manage gum disease early and save the supporting structures of your teeth.
How do I know if I need this treatment instead of a regular cleaning?
If you have gum pocket depths greater than three millimeters, persistent bleeding, gum recession, or loose teeth, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. These signs suggest the bacteria and hardened calculus have moved below the gums, requiring a deeper intervention to restore gum health.
Is the procedure painful and what should I expect during treatment?
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, so you should feel minimal discomfort during treatment. You may experience soreness or mild swelling afterward. The team provides instructions to manage sensitivity and ensure you remain comfortable throughout the healing process.
How long does it take to recover from scaling and root planing?
Recovery usually takes a few days to a week. You may have sensitivity, slight bleeding or gum tenderness. Avoiding tobacco, using a gentle mouth rinse and sticking to soft foods initially helps. Your dentist will schedule follow-up visits to check healing and pocket reduction.
Will I need multiple visits for scaling and root planing?
Yes—it’s often completed in two or more sessions, dividing the mouth into quadrants. This allows accurate cleaning below the gumline and better patient comfort. Your dentist in San Diego, CA will map out the sessions and ensure each area is fully addressed for optimal healing.
What happens if I skip the treatment and only receive regular cleanings?
If gum disease has progressed, regular cleanings may not reach below the gumline, letting pockets deepen, bone loss worsen and risk of tooth loss increase. Scaling and root planing intervenes at the correct level. Delaying it may lead to more invasive treatments later.
How should I care for my gums after the procedure?
Brush gently twice daily, floss carefully, use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse and avoid smoking. Soft foods and avoiding strong chewing allow healing. Attend your follow-up cleaning and maintenance visits to keep pocket depths under control and support gum reattachment.
Can this treatment prevent further tooth loss from gum disease?
Yes—by reducing pocket depth, removing infection and encouraging reattachment of the gums to the tooth root, scaling and root planing can halt progression of gum disease. When combined with good home care and maintenance, it significantly lowers the risk of future tooth loss.
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