Scaling and root planing is often the first line of treatment for periodontal disease. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, calculus (tartar), and bacterial toxins from below the gumline and along the root surfaces of the teeth.
- Reduces inflammation and bleeding
- Allows the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth
- Helps reduce periodontal pocket depth
In many patients with mild to moderate disease, scaling and root planing alone is sufficient to stabilize periodontal health.
When periodontal disease progresses beyond what non-surgical therapy can manage, surgical intervention may be necessary to eliminate deep infection, reduce inflammation, and stabilize the supporting bone around the teeth.