
Scaling and root planing is an essential part of periodontal treatment. We use scaling and root planing when you are struggling with gum disease symptoms, or to control gum disease symptoms before they become painful.
Scaling and root planing can give you healthy gums and a confident smile. Improve your gum health today and schedule an appointment with Pickens Family Dentistry.
A Dental Deep Clean
Scaling and root planing are part of our dental deep cleaning procedure. Our deep teeth cleaning is one of the best ways to prevent periodontal disease and potentially reverse gingivitis. We recommend a dental deep clean for those trying to reverse gingivitis or handle periodontal disease.
Our deep dental cleaning is a longer procedure than a regular cleaning and may need local or general anesthesia depending on the severity of your gum condition. Our comfort menu allows you to have a more comfortable experience while keeping your periodontal health at its best.
Dental Deep Cleaning vs. Routine Dental Cleaning
Our dental deep cleaning is perfect for those who have gingivitis or periodontal health concerns. It involves scaling and root planing, which get under and around your gums. This procedure is not necessary for most visits and cleanings. Too frequent deep cleanings could irritate your gums.
Routine dental cleanings seek to treat surface-level plaque and tartar, which can prevent gum disease concerns in the future. Routine dental cleanings take less time and do not require pain management, while root scalings and deep cleanings might. Overall, it is healthier to prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease with routine dental cleanings.
Schedule a routine dental cleaning today!
Why Treat Your Gum Disease?
If left untreated, gum disease can seriously affect your quality of life. It may hurt to eat and you may even lose your teeth. Gum disease can spread to other parts of your body through your bloodstream increasing the risk for many health conditions including heart disease and diabetes.
This is why we have regular, prevention-focused cleanings, trained staff, and if necessary, dental deep cleanings. If you see the signs of unhealthy gums, come in for an exam and consultation, do not wait until your next regular cleaning.

Dental Scaling
Teeth scaling, also called dental scaling, is part of our deep cleaning procedure, but it is also sometimes done during a routine dental cleaning. Dr. Pickens or one of our dental hygienists will gently scrape away the plaque and tartar around your gums and on your teeth.
Scaling teeth is an important procedure. It will remove the bacteria and plaque which will lessen the irritation in your gums. It can also prevent infection or reduce current infection. If you are struggling with gingivitis, this may be all that is needed for a healthier smile.
Root Planing
If you do need to treat more serious periodontal concerns, Dr. Pickens will also offer you root planing. This procedure goes under your gums to remove any infection and plaque around the root of your tooth. It may take a week or two of recovery time.
Root planing allows dentists to treat your gingivitis or periodontal concerns in the most efficient way, and will leave you with a stronger and pain-free smile.
When to Consider Scaling and Root Planing
When should you consider scaling and root planing? Our dentist or hygienist will always check for gum disease at your routine check-up appointments, and those concerns should be taken seriously.
If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of gingivitis or periodontal disease that is another good time to consider scaling and root planing. You can always book a consultation with us to see if that is something we recommend. We will do a thorough exam and determine what your smile needs to be the healthiest it can be.
Ask us about a dental deep clean for healthy gums today!
Costs of Dental Scaling and Root Planing
What are the costs for scaling and root planing or a dental deep cleaning? The costs are greatly determined by how intense the gum disease infection is. Because this is on a case-by-case basis, we recommend coming in for a consultation before your dental deep clean to discuss a payment plan and insurance coverage.
Come to the consultation with your insurance information and we will help you get a financial plan in place.
Protect Your Smile Today
Keep your smile and gums safe from periodontal disease. Watch for the signs of gingivitis and seek treatment with our skilled staff quickly. For gum disease treatment that can save your smile and help you feel better, call our dental office today!