Being told you need a “deep cleaning” can feel unsettling, especially when you are not sure what that means for your oral health or what the experience will actually be like. Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective and commonly recommended treatments for gum disease, and understanding the process from start to finish can make all the difference in how you feel as you walk through that door.
At Laudenbach Periodontics & Dental Implants in Philadelphia, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. Our periodontal therapy services are led by Dr. Jay Laudenbach, a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and graduate of Penn’s prestigious Periodontal Prosthesis program, and Dr. Ishita Bhavsar, who is Board Eligible for the American Board of Periodontology. Our team is here to walk alongside you at every step, answering your questions and making sure your experience is as comfortable as possible.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment designed to address gum disease by thoroughly cleaning beneath the gum line. When periodontal disease develops, bacteria and tartar build up in the spaces between the gums and teeth, called periodontal pockets. Left untreated, this buildup can lead to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss.
The Two Phases of Treatment
The procedure has two distinct components that work together to restore gum health:
- Scaling involves carefully removing plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth surfaces and from within the periodontal pockets beneath the gum line.
- Root planing smooths out the surfaces of the tooth roots, making it much more difficult for bacteria to reattach and giving the gum tissue the ideal environment it needs to heal and reattach to the tooth.
Together, these two steps address the root cause of gum disease rather than simply treating surface-level symptoms. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, scaling and root planing are foundational treatments for managing periodontitis and supporting long-term gum health.
Who Needs Scaling and Root Planing?
Not everyone with gum sensitivity or early gum concerns will require this treatment. However, if you have been noticing bleeding gums, gum recession, or your general dentist has measured deeper-than-normal pocket depths during a routine exam, scaling and root planing may be the right next step. Knowing when to see a periodontist can make a meaningful difference in how effectively the disease is managed.
Dr. Laudenbach takes a conservative approach to treatment, meaning every recommendation is based on a thorough clinical evaluation of your individual situation. Our goal is never to recommend more treatment than you actually need.
What to Expect During Your Scaling and Root Planing Appointment
Many patients feel relieved once they understand how the appointment is structured. The procedure is typically performed on one or two quadrants of the mouth at a time, so you are never sitting through treatment for the entire mouth at once. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout.
After Your Treatment
Caring for your gums following scaling and root planing is just as important as the procedure itself. You may notice some tenderness or sensitivity in the days following treatment, which is completely normal as your gum tissue begins to heal. Your care team will provide you with post-operative care instructions and walk you through best practices for keeping the area clean at home during recovery.
Most patients will return for a re-evaluation appointment several weeks after completing treatment. At that visit, we assess how well the tissue has responded and determine whether any additional care is needed. For many patients, consistent follow-up and strong home care habits are all that is needed to maintain the results in the long term.
Tips for Preventing Future Gum Disease
Once you have completed scaling and root planing, protecting those results becomes the priority. Preventing gum disease from recurring requires a combination of professional care and daily home care, including brushing, flossing, and attending regular periodontal maintenance appointments. Use of a Waterflosser and Sonicare toothbrush together is one of the most important ways to reduce inflammation and prevent future gum disease. Dr. Laudenbach and Dr. Bhavsar also offer additional options for patients who need more support managing their gum health over time, including Fotona laser therapy, which both periodontists are trained to perform.
If you have questions about the process, our patient FAQ is a great resource that covers many of the most common concerns patients bring to us.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums at Laudenbach Periodontics & Dental Implants
With over 45 years of trusted care serving the Philadelphia area, Laudenbach Periodontics & Dental Implants has built a practice grounded in compassion, clinical excellence, and a genuine commitment to patient comfort. Dr. Jay Laudenbach and Dr. Ishita Bhavsar bring advanced periodontal expertise to every appointment, and our entire team is dedicated to making you feel welcome, heard, and confident in your care.
If you have been told you need scaling and root planing, or if you are experiencing signs of gum disease and are not sure where to start, we are here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
