What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

If you have periodontal (gum) disease that has advanced to the subsequent stage, known as periodontitis, you might need scaling and root planing (SRP) therapy. As a popular periodontal disease treatment option at River Park Dental and Esthetics, SRP eliminates buildup and bacteria using the latest tools, helping to halt the advancement of gum disease. Throughout the scaling and root planing process, Dr. Phing Saurer will use precise dental equipment and laser-assisted technology to deeply clean away tartar and bacteria from your gum pockets, followed by smoothing your tooth roots to help reattach your gums and teeth. Schedule a visit to our dental office in Dublin, OH to learn more about the benefits of our advanced scaling and root planing treatment.

What Is the Treatment Process?

At your exam, we will assess the areas dividing your teeth and gum tissues. In cases where these areas surpass three millimeters deep and x-rays show that there is bone loss, Dr. Saurer could offer SRP therapy. Scaling and root planing is commonly done in sections of the mouth over a period of 1 – 4 sessions. To ensure that you feel at ease, Dr. Saurer will desensitize the area by applying a mild anesthetic, and then she will use a state-of-the-art dental scaler and both hand and laser-assisted tools to carefully eradicate buildup and bacteria from within your gum pockets. Your tooth root surfaces are then smoothed (planed) to reduce the regions where dangerous bacteria may gather. Topically delivered antibiotics might also be administered into the gum pockets to prevent bacterial accumulation. Swelling and gum discomfort can occur for a few days, but we recommend using over-the-counter pain meds and warm salt water rinses.

Stop the Progression of Gum Disease

At River Park Dental and Esthetics, we use the latest laser-assisted tools to address gum disease and prevent future infections. We invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Saurer to find out more about scaling and root planing and other effective, advanced oral health treatments we offer. Reach out to our Dublin, OH office to schedule a gumline exam today.

Scaling And Root Planing FAQs

No, most patients do not find a scaling and root planing procedure with Dr. Saurer painful. Before she begins, Dr. Saurer will numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort as she works. After the procedure, it is common to experience some discomfort for about a week, but this is typically easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses.

How many scaling and root planing procedures you will need depends on your oral health. Dr. Saurer will examine you and create a custom plan that will include the necessary number of treatments. Most patients will see the best results with about 1 – 4 procedures.

A typical scaling and root planing procedure can take about 60 – 90 minutes, depending on your oral health needs.

Because scaling and root planing is typically considered a medically necessary procedure to treat gum disease, many providers will cover part or all of the costs. Our team at River Park Dental and Esthetics can help you go over your insurance coverage to determine if scaling and root planing is covered.