Scaling and Root Planing

If your gums have been feeling tender, bleeding when you brush, or if you've been told you have early signs of gum disease, there’s a proven way to treat it. At Guiding Light Dental, we offer scaling and root planing to remove harmful buildup below the gumline and give your smile a fresh start.

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What Happens During Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that goes beyond a routine dental cleaning. It’s designed to remove plaque and tartar that have built up beneath the gumline and smooth out the surfaces of the tooth roots.

During the scaling portion, we carefully remove harmful buildup from both above and below the gums. Root planing follows—this step smooths the root surfaces, helping your gums reattach and making it harder for bacteria to return.

We typically perform this treatment over one or two visits, depending on your needs.

Why Might I Need This Treatment?

You may need scaling and root planing if you’ve been diagnosed with early to moderate gum disease (also called periodontal disease). Signs include:

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Chronic bad breath
Deep pockets between your teeth and gums

The treatment helps stop the disease from progressing and protects against tooth loss and bone damage.

Will the Procedure Be Uncomfortable?

Many patients are surprised at how manageable the process is. We use local anesthetic to numb the area, so you’ll stay comfortable throughout the procedure.

Afterward, it’s common to experience a little tenderness or sensitivity for a day or two. Most people return to their normal routines right away.

How Do I Take Care of My Teeth Afterward?

After treatment, good home care is essential. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and consider an antibacterial mouth rinse if recommended by our team.

We may schedule more frequent cleanings and check-ups in the months following treatment to help your gums continue healing and prevent future issues.

What Are the Long-Term Benefits?

Helps stop gum disease from progressing
Reduces inflammation and bleeding in the gums
Prevents gum recession from worsening
Lowers the risk of tooth loss
Protects the bone that supports your teeth
Minimizes the need for more invasive procedures later
Gives your gums a healthier environment to reattach to your teeth
Provides a clean foundation for better long-term oral hygiene

Want to Improve Your Gum Health?

Contact Guiding Light Dental today to schedule your scaling and root planing appointment! We’re here to guide your family with compassionate care and proven treatments that protect smiles at every age.