Scaling & Root Planing in Bardonia

Hudson Valley Periodontics & Implantology provides scaling and root planing services in Bardonia, NY. Call 845-623-6666 to learn more and schedule your appointment. 

Scaling and root planing is our first line of defense against gum disease. In fact, this simple, non-invasive procedure can often reverse gum disease in a single visit.

When plaque hardens on the surfaces of the teeth, it’s called tartar or calculus. In the case of gum disease, tartar begins to collect below the gumline. As debris collects, the gum tissue pulls further away from the roots of the teeth, forming deeper pockets where more plaque and tartar collect. This is where gum disease originates.

The goal of scaling and root planing is to remove the plaque and tartar and then encourage the gum to attach to the root of the tooth. This is done in two parts. With scaling, a special dental instrument is used to remove all traces of plaque and tartar from beneath the gums. You will receive local anesthesia before we start any work, so you won’t feel any discomfort during the scaling process. 

Next, the root of your tooth is smoothed with a tool called a planer. This allows the gums to reattach to the tooth, closing the pockets where plaque and tartar collect. After scaling and root planing, you may have some tenderness and swelling, but discomfort is minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Assuming you brush for two minutes twice a day, floss at least once a day, and go to the dentist every six months for dental cleanings and exams, you may not need another scaling and root planing procedure. We will provide you with a periodontal maintenance plan to help you keep your gums healthy after your scaling and root planing treatment.

No, scaling and root planing isn’t painful. Both your gums and the roots of your teeth will be numbed with local anesthesia. You may have some tenderness after the procedure, but it is usually mild and goes away after a few days. Sometimes tooth sensitivity can persist for a few weeks after your treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, scaling and root planing is necessary. Gum disease will not resolve on its own; it will only get worse. 

Yes, you can eat after scaling and root planing, but if your teeth and gums feel sore, it’s best to stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods at first and avoid anything that could get stuck in your gums like popcorn. Avoid spicy foods, hot foods, and alcohol too.

Yes, your gums will heal and grow back onto the roots of your teeth, eliminating pockets where harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up. It usually takes between six to eight weeks for this to occur.

Call 845-623-6666 to schedule your appointment.