Restorative & Gum Care
Scaling and Root Planing in San Rafael, CA
A deep cleaning to stop gum disease in its tracks.
Scaling and root planing is a proven, non-surgical treatment for gum disease that clears away harmful buildup below the gumline. At Dental Studio of Marin, this deep cleaning helps reverse early gum disease and protect your teeth from further damage.
Dentistry for Every Stage of Life
Comprehensive dental services in a welcoming San Rafael office.
Scaling and Root Planing in San Rafael
When gum disease progresses beyond what a routine cleaning can address, scaling and root planing steps in. Often called a “deep cleaning,” this two-part treatment removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots so gums can reattach and heal. It’s the most common non-surgical treatment for gum disease, and for many patients it’s enough to stop the disease from advancing and get their gum health back on track.
How the Treatment Works
Scaling and root planing has two connected goals: removing infection-causing buildup and helping your gums recover.
- Scaling We carefully remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and around the tooth roots.
- Root Planing We smooth the root surfaces so gums can reattach and pockets can shrink.
- Comfort First The area is numbed so treatment stays comfortable throughout.
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and deepening pockets between your teeth and gums can all point to gum disease. If we notice these signs during your exam, scaling and root planing is often the first line of treatment to halt the problem before it worsens.
What to Expect Afterward
Some mild tenderness or sensitivity is normal for a few days after treatment, and it typically fades quickly. As your gums heal, you’ll often notice they look pinker, feel firmer, and bleed less. We’ll give you simple aftercare guidance and, in many cases, transition you into a periodontal maintenance schedule to protect the results.
Protecting Your Long-Term Gum Health
Scaling and root planing is a powerful reset, but keeping gum disease away depends on what happens next. Consistent home care and regular maintenance visits keep bacteria from rebuilding below the gumline. Together, they help preserve the bone and tissue that support your teeth, protecting your smile for the long haul.
Scaling and Root Planing FAQ
- What is scaling and root planing?
- It’s a deep, non-surgical cleaning that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline and smooths tooth roots so gums can heal.
- How is it different from a regular cleaning?
- A regular cleaning targets the visible surfaces above the gumline, while scaling and root planing treats deeper areas affected by gum disease.
- Does the procedure hurt?
- We numb the area beforehand, so you stay comfortable. Mild tenderness afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days.
- How many visits does it take?
- It’s often done in one or two visits, sometimes treating one side of the mouth at a time for comfort.
- How do I know if I need it?
- Bleeding, swollen gums, bad breath, gum recession, and deep pockets are common signs. We’ll confirm during your exam.
- Will my gums go back to normal?
- As they heal, gums often become firmer, pinker, and less prone to bleeding, especially with good ongoing care.
- What happens after treatment?
- Many patients move onto a periodontal maintenance schedule with more frequent cleanings to keep gum disease under control.
- How do I schedule an evaluation?
- Contact our San Rafael office and we’ll assess your gum health and recommend the right treatment.
A MORE CONSIDERED APPROACH
Dr. Mehdi Salek, DDS
Office Hours
Quick Links