Preventive Dentistry
Scaling and Root Planing in San Fernando, CA
A deep cleaning that treats gum disease and helps your gums heal.
When gum disease takes hold, a standard cleaning is not enough to reverse it. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning that removes bacteria and buildup from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots so your gums can heal. At San Fernando Dental Care, this comfortable, effective treatment is often the first step toward stopping gum disease in its tracks.
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Preventive Dentistry
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a two-part deep cleaning that treats the early and moderate stages of gum disease. During scaling, we carefully remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and around the tooth roots. Root planing then smooths those root surfaces, which helps the gums reattach to the teeth and makes it harder for bacteria to build up again. Together they give your gums the chance to heal.
- Removes bacteria below the gumline
- Smooths roots so gums can reattach
- Treats early and moderate gum disease
- Comfortable, with anesthesia as needed
Warning Signs
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Gum disease is common and often quiet in its early stages. You may benefit from scaling and root planing if you notice:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Bleeding when you brush or floss.
- Persistent bad breath that does not go away.
- Gums that are pulling away from the teeth.
- Deep pockets found during your dental exam.
Comfort & Healing
Comfort During Your Deep Cleaning
We keep you comfortable throughout treatment, numbing the area so the deep cleaning is painless, and we may treat one section of the mouth at a time. Afterward, your gums may feel a little tender for a few days, which is normal as they begin to heal. We will share simple aftercare tips and usually schedule a follow-up to check how well your gums are recovering.
Next Steps
Keeping Gum Disease Away
After scaling and root planing, ongoing care is what keeps gum disease from returning. Most patients move onto a periodontal maintenance schedule with more frequent cleanings, paired with good brushing and flossing at home, to protect the progress you have made and keep your gums healthy.
Concerned About Your Gums?
If your gums bleed, feel sore, or have been flagged during an exam, do not wait. Book online or reach out to our team, and let San Fernando Dental Care help you get your gum health back on track.
Questions & Answers
Scaling and Root Planing FAQ
What is scaling and root planing?
It is a deep cleaning that treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots (root planing) so the gums can heal and reattach.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
We numb the area beforehand, so the treatment itself is comfortable. Some tenderness afterward is normal and usually eases within a few days.
How long does the treatment take?
It depends on how much buildup is present. We often treat one section of the mouth at a time, with each visit typically lasting under an hour.
Is a deep cleaning really necessary?
If gum disease is present, yes. Left untreated, it can lead to bone loss and tooth loss, so scaling and root planing is an important step to protect your smile.
What is recovery like?
Your gums may feel tender and a bit sensitive for a few days. Simple aftercare and gentle brushing help, and most people return to normal quickly.
How is this different from a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning treats healthy teeth above the gumline. Scaling and root planing goes below the gumline to treat active gum disease and help the gums recover.
Will I need it again?
Many patients need it once to get gum disease under control, then move to periodontal maintenance visits to keep it from returning.
How do I schedule a deep cleaning?
Book online or reach out to our team. We will evaluate your gums and let you know whether scaling and root planing is right for you.
