What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is the cornerstone non-surgical treatment for periodontal disease. When bacteria accumulate below the gumline and harden into tartar, they trigger an inflammatory response that damages the gum tissue and, over time, the bone that supports the teeth. Scaling removes the bacterial deposits and calculus from the tooth surfaces and root structures beneath the gums, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to eliminate the rough areas where bacteria tend to recolonize.
Scaling and Root Planing: Quick Facts
Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
Number of visits | 2 to 4, plus a re-evaluation |
Time needed | 60 to 90 minutes per visit |
Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
Recovery time | Tender gums for a few days |
Follow-up | Periodontal maintenance every 3 to 4 months |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is the first treatment for periodontitis. It is recommended when pockets are too deep for a routine cleaning and there is evidence of bone loss.
Pockets of 4 mm or deeper
Bleeding when the gums are measured
Tartar below the gumline on X-rays
Early bone loss
Red, swollen or receding gums
Scaling and Root Planing at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, scaling and root planing is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, a board-certified periodontist with the advanced training and diagnostic precision to address periodontal disease at every stage. Dr. Geoffrey evaluates the depth of periodontal pockets, the extent of bone involvement, and the overall condition of the gum tissue before developing a treatment strategy. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and may be completed in one visit or staged across multiple appointments depending on the severity and distribution of the disease.
What to Expect, Step by Step
Full charting. Pockets, recession and bleeding are recorded for every tooth.
Numbing. Local anesthesia is given for the area being treated.
Scaling. Deposits are removed from the crowns and roots.
Root planing. Root surfaces are smoothed to remove bacterial toxins.
Further visits. The mouth is usually treated in two to four sections.
Re-evaluation. Pockets are remeasured after four to six weeks.
What happens after scaling and root planing
Result at re-evaluation | What it means | Next step |
|---|---|---|
Pockets 3 mm or less, no bleeding | Disease is under control | Periodontal maintenance |
Some pockets of 4 to 5 mm | Partial response | Repeat treatment in those areas, with closer maintenance |
Pockets of 6 mm or more remain | Non-surgical care was not enough | Pocket reduction surgery or laser therapy is discussed |
Root planing gives the gum a clean surface to heal against. The body does the rest.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
Eat only after the numbness has gone
Rinse with warm salt water
Take pain relief if needed; sensitivity to cold is common
The following days and weeks
Brush gently at the gumline and clean between teeth daily
Use any prescribed rinse as directed
Return for re-evaluation and then every three to four months
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
Bleeding does not settle
Swelling or pain increases after 48 hours
You notice pus or a gum boil
What Treatment Achieves and What Comes Next
The goal of scaling and root planing is to halt the progression of gum disease and create an environment where the gum tissue can heal and reattach to the teeth. After treatment, most patients experience a noticeable reduction in gum inflammation, bleeding, and pocket depth. The results are maintained through a consistent periodontal maintenance schedule, which Dr. Geoffrey establishes based on each patient’s response to treatment and ongoing risk factors.
For patients whose gum disease has advanced beyond what non-surgical treatment can fully resolve, Dr. Geoffrey may recommend additional interventions such as pocket reduction surgery or laser periodontal therapy (LANAP). Preventive laser bacterial reduction performed by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein can also complement scaling and root planing by targeting residual bacteria below the gumline with precision laser technology.
Cost and Insurance
Scaling and root planing is billed by quadrant, and a quadrant with only a few deep pockets may be charged at a lower rate than one where most teeth are affected. Local anesthetic, a laser or an antibiotic gel placed in the pockets can add to the fee. It is usually treated as basic care, with plans often covering part and asking for recent pocket measurements.
What affects the cost
The number of teeth or areas treated
Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
Graft materials and membranes, where used
Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
