Assessment of Periodontal Health
The first step toward healthier gums is identifying the problem. If gum disease is suspected, a comprehensive periodontal evaluation is needed to assess the health of your gums and supporting bone.
During this evaluation, Dr. Dianati will gently measure the gum tissue around each tooth with a periodontal probe. These measurements are called periodontal “pockets”—the deeper the pockets, the more advanced the periodontal (gum) disease.
A Conservative, Non-Surgical First Step
For many patients, the first phase of treatment is conservative and non-surgical. This typically involves scaling and root planing, commonly known as a deep cleaning. In some cases, this may be all that’s needed to address the affected areas and help get gum disease under control.
How Scaling and Root Planing Helps
Gum disease is a serious condition that can worsen over time and may eventually lead to tooth loss. Scaling and root planing helps by:
What Happens During the Procedure?
During scaling, plaque and tartar beneath the gum tissue are carefully broken up and removed using specialized instruments. A piezo (ultrasonic) unit may also be used to help loosen deposits before they’re gently cleaned away.
If plaque and tartar are present on the root surfaces, root planing removes the buildup and smooths rough areas, creating a cleaner surface that’s easier to keep healthy.
How Many Appointments Will I Need?
Scaling and root planing usually takes longer than a standard cleaning and may require more than one appointment. Often, the mouth is treated in halves or quarters to keep you comfortable and allow for smoother healing.
In some cases, sedation may be used so more treatment can be completed in a single visit.
Comfort, Recovery, and Aftercare
Before treatment, your gums will be thoroughly numbed. You should feel pressure, but you should not feel sharp pain during the procedure.
Afterwards, it’s normal to experience:
Most patients manage this well with ibuprofen (if you’re able to take it) and ice packs. For many people, the most noticeable discomfort improves within a few hours, and healing continues over the following days.
Follow-Up and Re-Evaluation
Gums continue to heal over the next week (and sometimes a bit longer). There are no long-term eating restrictions once healing is complete.
About four weeks after treatment, Dr. Dianati will schedule a follow-up to re-evaluate your periodontal pocket measurements and confirm that your gums are responding well.
A Healthier Smile Starts Here
By removing harmful buildup and bacteria from below the gumline, scaling and root planing supports healthier gums—and a healthier foundation for your teeth. And that’s something to smile about.
Call our office today at (818) 584-1841 to schedule a consultation and review the best options for improving your gum health and enhancing your smile.