Scaling and Root Planing: Deep Cleaning for Gum Health in Brentwood, CA

At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we prioritize the health of your gums as the foundation of your entire smile. When plaque and tartar move below the gumline, a standard cleaning is no longer enough. Dr. Thuc Luu recommends Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)—often called a “deep cleaning”—to treat gingivitis and more advanced periodontal disease.

This non-surgical treatment is the gold standard for stopping gum disease in its tracks, preventing tooth loss, and protecting your overall systemic health.

Why Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?

Gum disease occurs when bacteria collect in the “pockets” between your teeth and gums. If left untreated, these pockets deepen, and the bacteria begin to destroy the bone that holds your teeth in place.

You may need Scaling and Root Planing if you notice:

• Bleeding Gums: Especially when brushing or flossing.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Caused by bacteria trapped in deep pockets.
• Receding Gums: Your teeth appear “longer” than they used to.
• Deep Pockets: During your exam, we find pocket depths of 4mm or more.
• Inflammation: Red, swollen, or tender gums.

The Two Stages of the Procedure

Scaling and root planing is typically performed by our skilled dental hygienists under the supervision of Dr. Luu, often over two appointments (treating one side of the mouth at a time).

1. Scaling

The “scaling” phase involves removing plaque and tartar (calculus) from the surface of the teeth and, most importantly, from the pockets beneath the gumline. We use both traditional hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers, which use high-frequency vibrations to break up stubborn tartar and flush out bacteria.

2. Root Planing

Once the tartar is removed, we move to “planing.” This involves smoothing the rough surfaces of the tooth roots.

• The Goal: Smoothing the roots removes bacterial toxins and makes it much harder for plaque to re-attach. It also provides a clean surface for your gum tissue to re-attach to the tooth, naturally shrinking those deep pockets.

What to Expect: Comfort and Care

We want your experience at Fairview Dental to be painless and stress-free.

• Local Anesthesia: We usually numb the area being treated so you don’t feel any discomfort during the deep cleaning.
• Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, we may apply a localized antibiotic (like Arestin®) directly into the pockets to kill any remaining bacteria and aid in healing.
• Post-Op Feeling: Your gums may feel slightly tender or “sore” for a day or two. You might also notice temporary sensitivity to hot or cold as the inflammation goes down.

The Long-Term Benefits of SRP

Scaling and root planing is an investment in your total body health. Research from the American Academy of Periodontology shows that treating gum disease can reduce the risk of:

• Heart Disease and Stroke: Reducing oral inflammation lowers systemic inflammation.
• Diabetes Complications: Gum disease and diabetes often feed into one another; treating one helps manage the other.
• Tooth Loss: By stabilizing the bone and shrinking pockets, you keep your natural teeth longer.

Why Choose Fairview Dental for Periodontal Care?

Dr. Thuc Luu and our hygiene team take a proactive approach to gum health.

• Advanced Technology: We use ultrasonic technology to make the cleaning process faster and more thorough.
• Personalized Maintenance: After your deep cleaning, we transition you to “Periodontal Maintenance” cleanings to ensure the bacteria don’t return.
• Honest Assessments: We use digital imaging to show you exactly where the bone loss is occurring so you can be a partner in your own treatment.

Restore Your Gum Health Today

Gum disease is a “silent” condition—it often doesn’t hurt until it’s in the advanced stages. Don’t wait for your teeth to become loose. At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we can help you reclaim a healthy, infection-free smile.

Call us today at (925) 240-7253 or visit our office in the Shops at Fairview to schedule your periodontal evaluation.