Scaling and Root Planing

Sarasota scaling and root planing is a gum disease treatment in which plaque and tartar are removed to promote healthy teeth and gums.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that can prevent and treat gum disease. According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar buildup inflames the gums and causes the gums to recede, or pull away from teeth. Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth root to allow gums to reattach to teeth.

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When Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?

You may need scaling and root planing if you have gum disease, or if your teeth and gums are showing symptoms of gum disease. Common symptoms of gum disease include sensitive teeth, bad breath, pain when chewing, bleeding gums, and gums that are red, swollen, and have pulled away from teeth.

Is Scaling and Root Planing Painful?

A local anesthetic may be used to numb your gums and tooth roots prior to scaling and root planing to reduce any pain or discomfort you may feel during the procedure. Some patients may experience minor discomfort, soreness, and tender gums after the anesthetic wears off.

What to Expect During Scaling and Root Planing

During a Sarasota scaling and root planing procedure, a dental scaler, or curette, will be used to remove plaque and tartar that is visible on the teeth and hidden below the gumline. Then, the same dental tool will be used to smooth the tooth roots and help gums reattach to teeth. Scaling and root planing may take place in one or multiple dental visits depending on the amount of plaque and tartar that needs to be removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does periodontal scaling cost?

The cost of Sarasota scaling and root planing with Dr. Hank Michael will depend on the number of teeth that need to be treated and which quadrants they are located in (i.e. Upper Left 1-3 teeth, Lower Left 4+ teeth). As of 2020, Sarasota Dentistry's fees range from $200-$400 per quadrant.

What can I expect after scaling and root planing?

Your gums may feel tender and sore for a few days after scaling and root planing. Your dentist will ask you to return to the office for a follow-up appointments called periodontal maintenance. Periodontal Maintenance is required every 3-4 months in order to maintain periodontal health and to prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. In some cases, scaling and root planing will not be enough to treat the periodontal disease. More advanced therapies may necessary such as osseous surgery.

Do gums reattach after deep cleaning?

Plaque and tartar buildup can cause the gums to recede and pull away from teeth. However, the removal of plaque and tartar from teeth and the smoothing of tooth roots creates a healthy environment in which gums can reattach to the teeth following a deep cleaning.

How often do you need scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is not meant to be a recurring treatment, however, the periodontal maintenance that follows is and should be performed every 3-4 months. If not, scaling and root planing may be needed again in less than a year. Your dentist, or Dr. Hank Michael at Sarasota Dentistry, will recommend the frequency at which you need to perform periodontal maintenance, so you can prevent periodontal disease and recurring scaling and root planing procedures and maintain your oral health.

How long does scaling and root planing take?

Your dentist usually needs between one and two hours to perform scaling and root planing. Some people with advanced cases of gum disease or heavy plaque buildup may need multiple deep cleaning appointments. Dr. Michael or Dr. Swanson can give you a more accurate time frame regarding how long scaling and root planing can take based on your unique situation.

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"First Class Professional Quality All the Way! Dr. Michaels and his staff are all top notch!"

Robert R

Customer since 1991

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Scaling and Root Planing

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Schedule an Appointment

When Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?

Is Scaling and Root Planing Painful?

What to Expect During Scaling and Root Planing

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does periodontal scaling cost?

What can I expect after scaling and root planing?

Do gums reattach after deep cleaning?

How often do you need scaling and root planing?

How long does scaling and root planing take?

How To Fix Receding Gums

How Often Should You Floss?

How to Remove Tartar from Teeth Without a Dentist

"First Class Professional Quality All the Way! Dr. Michaels and his staff are all top notch!"

Robert R

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