Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing

The objective of scaling & root planning is to remove etiologic agents which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus).

These non-surgical procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate/severe periodontal disease.

Reasons for scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planning can be used both as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone treatment. These procedures are performed as a preventative measure for a periodontitis sufferer.

Here are some reasons why these dental procedures may be necessary:

Disease prevention – The oral bacteria which cause periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria and halts periodontal disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body.
Tooth protection – When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more colonies of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by the body begins to destroy gingival and bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world.
Aesthetic effects – Scaling and root planing help remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the scaling and root planning procedure.
Better breath – One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis (bad breath). Food particles and bacteria can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which is alleviated with cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing.

What do scaling and root planing treatments involve?

Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after a thorough examination of the mouth. The dentist will take X-rays, conduct visual examinations and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning these procedures.

Depending on the current condition of the gums, the amount of calculus (tartar) present, the depth of the pockets and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthetic may be used.

Scaling – This procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool removes calculus and plaque from the surface of the crown and root surfaces. In many cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.

Root Planing – This procedure is a specific treatment which serves to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed in order to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces helps bacteria from easily colonizing in future.

Following these deep cleaning procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will soothe irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.

During the next appointment, the dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended.

If you have any concerns or questions about scaling and root planing, or periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Gum Disease Diagnosis

Gum Recession

Laser Periodontal Treatment

Mouth - Body Connection

Periodontal Cleanings (Maintenance)

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease and Diabetes

Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis

Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy

Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease

Periodontal Disease Antibiotic Treatment

Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke

Pocket Irrigation

Signs & Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Types of Periodontal Disease

What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Reviews

What our patients are saying

    
 
 
      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a patient of Dr. Bleeker’s for many years, and it has always been a pleasure to be under his care. His professionalism is truly beyond the highest standard. He consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients. Several years ago, I had veneers placed, and they performed beautifully without any issues for many years.  When one of the veneered teeth later came off, Dr. Bleeker recommended placing a full crown, which worked perfectly. About a week later, a second tooth veneer came loose. Rather than simply replacing it, he chose to place another full crown to ensure a stronger, longer-lasting result. What impressed me most was that both crowns were provided free of charge—far beyond what I ever expected. Dr. Bleeker truly went above and beyond to stand behind his work and ensure I was completely satisfied. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. I highly recommend Dr. Bleeker to anyone seeking outstanding dental care.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   William Mcardle 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a general dentist in Phoenix and I needed Dr Bleeker’s help with a complex denture where my patient had to have his mandibular bone removed and replaced with a leg bone. I successfully help my patients with dentures in my office, but this particular case was beyond my skill level. Dr Bleeker has been exactly what this patient needed—knowledgeable, kind, easy to work with, and full of solutions. I will definitely refer other complex patients to Dr Bleeker.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   Paul Nielson 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my time. I have implants and crowns and hands down Dr. Bleeker and his fabulous assistant, Cheryl make it worthwhile to drive from the Biltmore area to North Scottsdale. I highly recommend this dental practice.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   Sherrie Kelly 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best office ever! Dr Bleeker is so talented and Cheryl and Melinda are so knowledgeable and kind! Always leave there laughing and having a great time!!!!
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   Interiors professional 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Dr Bleeker on a referral; I was able To get right away because of a cancellation. I love the easy manner Dr Bleeker has and how relaxed he is. His PA Cheryl is very professional, however, she will always make you smile. They have all the latest technology including lasers for healing and Yomi for robotic surgery implant placement.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   Beverly Schwartz 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very clean office great atmosphere! Very professional staff! Dr Bleeker is very artistic
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   Lyn Chi 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is the best place  to go for any and all dental work!  The staff and the doctor know what they’re doing. I can’t believe the difference in knowledge, experience and technology that they have. Just don’t go anywhere else you will regret it. That’s what happened to me…all of the time and money I  wasted at these other dental offices ..I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bleeker and his staff.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
    
   K N

I have been a patient of Dr. Bleeker’s for many years, and it has always been a pleasure to be under his care. His professionalism is truly beyond the highest standard. He consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients. Several years ago, I had veneers placed, and they performed beautifully without any issues for many years. When one of the veneered teeth later came off, Dr. Bleeker recommended placing a full crown, which worked perfectly. About a week later, a second tooth veneer came loose. Rather than simply replacing it, he chose to place another full crown to ensure a stronger, longer-lasting result. What impressed me most was that both crowns were provided free of charge—far beyond what I ever expected. Dr. Bleeker truly went above and beyond to stand behind his work and ensure I was completely satisfied. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. I highly recommend Dr. Bleeker to anyone seeking outstanding dental care.

William Mcardle

I am a general dentist in Phoenix and I needed Dr Bleeker’s help with a complex denture where my patient had to have his mandibular bone removed and replaced with a leg bone. I successfully help my patients with dentures in my office, but this particular case was beyond my skill level. Dr Bleeker has been exactly what this patient needed—knowledgeable, kind, easy to work with, and full of solutions. I will definitely refer other complex patients to Dr Bleeker.

Paul Nielson

I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my time. I have implants and crowns and hands down Dr. Bleeker and his fabulous assistant, Cheryl make it worthwhile to drive from the Biltmore area to North Scottsdale. I highly recommend this dental practice.

Sherrie Kelly

Best office ever! Dr Bleeker is so talented and Cheryl and Melinda are so knowledgeable and kind! Always leave there laughing and having a great time!!!!

Interiors professional

I met Dr Bleeker on a referral; I was able To get right away because of a cancellation. I love the easy manner Dr Bleeker has and how relaxed he is. His PA Cheryl is very professional, however, she will always make you smile. They have all the latest technology including lasers for healing and Yomi for robotic surgery implant placement.

Beverly Schwartz

Very clean office great atmosphere! Very professional staff! Dr Bleeker is very artistic

Lyn Chi

This is the best place to go for any and all dental work! The staff and the doctor know what they’re doing. I can’t believe the difference in knowledge, experience and technology that they have. Just don’t go anywhere else you will regret it. That’s what happened to me…all of the time and money I wasted at these other dental offices ..I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bleeker and his staff.

K N

Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing in Scottsdale, AZ