Scaling and root planing
What is a dental deep cleaning?
Dental deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing (SRP), is a non-surgical dental procedure aimed at treating gum disease or periodontitis. It’s prescribed to patients after a comprehensive exam.
How is it different than regular teeth cleaning?
Regular teeth cleaning is preventative dental care, but scaling and root planing goes beyond the surface, targeting the roots and the infection in your gums. It scales away plaque on teeth, tartar and bacteria that regular brushing and cleaning can’t reach.
What to expect during dental deep cleaning appointment
During your dental deep cleaning treatment at one of our Forever Dental offices, we make the process easy and straightforward for you. Here’s a look into the steps.
Scaling
The first step in deep cleaning involves scaling, where your dentist or dental hygienist uses hand and power instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gum line. This process may involve both manual scaling tools and ultrasonic scalers, which use high-frequency vibrations to loosen and remove stubborn deposits.
Root planing
Following scaling, root planing is performed to smooth out rough areas on the roots of the teeth, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere and accumulate. This step also helps the gum tissue to reattach to the roots of the teeth, promoting healing and reducing the depth of gum pockets.
Local anesthesia
Depending on the extent of the treatment and the sensitivity of your gums, your dentist may administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. This numbing agent helps to alleviate any discomfort or pain associated with deep cleaning.
Follow-up care
After deep cleaning, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing and using antibacterial mouthwash. Your dentist may also recommend more frequent dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your oral health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
Benefits of deep cleaning teeth
A deep dental cleaning improves your oral health and your lifestyle.
Stronger teeth and healthier gums
Scaling and root planing helps to guard against root decay and progression of gum disease.
Bigger, brighter smile
Improve the appearance of your teeth and get healthy gums. SRP protects against tooth decay and gum disease.
Fresher breath and a cleaner feeling mouth
Say goodbye to bad breath and feel confident in that first ‘hello’.
Why Our Patients Love Us
Dr. Patel is amazing. She saved one of my molars when I was told somewhere else it had to be pulled. She did a crown which fit perfectly. I haven’t had any issues with my crown. I often forget I had one done. She is thorough, and makes you feel so comfortable. I never liked going to the dentist but Dr. Patel makes me look forward to seeing her. I live in the south suburbs and she is worth the drive.
I had my dental appointment yesterday and it was my first most extensive consultation of my teeth ever. Yes, it’s uncomfortable meanwhile interesting to know the condition of my oral health. Dentist Reshma explained thoroughly how concerning the issue I have and the gravity of it. On the other hand, the staffs were doing great in welcoming and accommodating customers. Samantha and the other staff displays their job expertise very well.
Everyone that works in this office is very friendly and professional. I first came in after not having dental insurance for a while, and it had been years since my last dentist visit, and they did a consultation visit to see what needed to be done. They made what is normally an unpleasant experience (cavities and crowns) quick and painless.
Forever Dental on Archer is awesome! I’ve had nothing but great encounters with Dr. Patel and all support staff. I recently started treatment with Invisalign braces and the process has been very comfortable and straightforward. If you are looking for a great Dental office, I’d highly recommend Forever Dental.
My mother has been treated with so much respect here, I had to try them out. Mom was right! I love going to the dentist now, they service on time and with the upmost priority to help and care for you. Every one is friendly, patient, and helpful in terms of communicating the in’s and out’s of the insurance offering, etc. I highly recommend. They have an excellent staff. Thank you Forever Dental ?
I recently visited Forever Dental for my first appointment at the facility , and I couldn’t be more impressed! From the moment I walked in, the office staff, Yessenia and Karla were welcoming and professional, making the check-in process smooth and stress-free, which immediately put me at ease.
Dr. Dhake and the hygienist, Karla, took the time to explain everything in detail, from the x rays, exam process to the treatment plan. They were gentle, thorough, and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. I even was offered essential oils -lavender- to help calm my nerves, it helped to relax me and I will use it again next time I visit, I also appreciated how they answered all my questions without making me feel rushed. They were accommodating to my schedule and were able to fit in an X-rays, exam, cleaning and dental work-cavity treatments all in one visit.
This team made the experience of going to the dentist a pleasant one and I feel confident that I’m in great hands here (which hasn’t always been the case at other dentist offices). Now it’s time to make an appointment for my husband, he is long overdue.
If you’re looking for a skilled, caring, and professional dental team, I highly recommend Forever Dental!
Our family loves forever dental! It has been our dental home for more than a decade, serving my whole family from cleanings, whitening, and braces. The whole experience, from phone calls to check ins and the work in the back, is easy, friendly, and quick. ALL the staff are pleasant and easy to work with.
I appreciate the knowledgeable professionals that help keep our teeth healthy. Thank you so much!
Scaling and root planing FAQs
Is scaling and root planing the same as deep cleaning?
Yes, scaling and root planing are synonymous with deep cleaning. While the terms may be used interchangeably, they both refer to the same non-surgical treatment aimed at addressing gum disease (periodontitis) by removing plaque, tartar and bacteria from below the gum line and smoothing out rough spots on the roots of the teeth. This comprehensive cleaning process helps to halt the progression of gum disease, promote gum tissue healing and preserve oral health.
What is the difference between a deep cleaning and a regular cleaning?
A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, involves removing plaque and tartar build-up from below the gum line, which cannot be addressed by regular cleaning.
How often should I get a dental deep cleaning?
The frequency of deep cleaning depends on the severity of your periodontal disease. Our dental professionals will recommend a personalized treatment plan after a thorough examination.
How long does it take to recover from scaling and root planing?
The recovery time from scaling and root planing can vary from person to person, depending on the complexity of the treatment and individual factors such as oral health, immune system response and adherence to post-treatment care instructions. Generally, most people experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated areas for a few days following the procedure. However, full recovery typically takes about one to two weeks.
During this time, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s or dental hygienist’s recommendations for post-treatment care, which may include:
- Oral hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly but be gentle around the treated areas to avoid irritation.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that was treated to prevent discomfort or disruption of the healing process.
- Use of pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate any discomfort or soreness.
- Rinsing with mouthwash: Your Forever Dental dentist will provide mouthwash and recommend rinsing your mouth to reduce inflammation or infection and promote healing.
- Follow-up appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your healing progress and ensure that any remaining tartar or plaque buildup is addressed.
Following these guidelines and maintaining good oral hygiene habits can help expedite the healing process and minimize any potential complications. If you experience prolonged or severe discomfort after scaling and root planing, you must contact your local Forever Dental dentist for further evaluation and guidance.
How painful is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is commonly a non-surgical treatment but depending on your sensitivity, your dentist may provide a numbing agent.
Will my insurance cover the cost of dental deep cleaning?
Many insurance plans contribute toward the cost of periodontal treatments. Please consult with your provider and our office can assist with understanding your benefits and coverage.
How much is a dental cleaning without insurance?
The cost may vary. We offer competitive dental cleaning costs, ensuring transparency with the cost for each procedure in your treatment.
Your path to healthier gums today
Invest in your oral health by scheduling a comprehensive exam with our committed Forever Dental team today. We’re ready when you are!