Houston Scaling & Root Planing

Essential Treatments for Gum Disease in Houston, TX

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, the first course of action is to undergo root scaling and planing. During this procedure, your Houston periodontist will use an ultrasonic scaling device that eliminates bacteria through the use of vibrations. The scaling device helps remove tartar, plaque, and biofilm from the surface of the tooth and near the gumline. After scaling, your periodontist will perform root planing, which involves smoothing out rough areas near the tooth's root surface, helping to prevent future plaque buildup.

Bellaire Periodontics has been helping countless Houston residents battle the onset of gum disease, and by scheduling an appointment, we can help you.

Your Experience During the Root Scaling & Planing Procedure

During the procedure, your periodontist will administer a local anesthetic to keep your discomfort and pain to a minimum. Since the procedure aggressively removes tartar, plaque, and bacteria, your gums will feel sore and tender for a few hours, or possibly days, after the procedure. Our experienced Houston periodontist knows how to minimize your discomfort while providing an effective treatment plan. A follow-up visit will be scheduled in order to examine the effectiveness of the procedure and to ensure that the affected areas are healing well. During this visit, we will also determine if further treatment will be required to treat the disease, such as any surgical interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the scaling and root planing procedure be painful?

We prioritize patient comfort by using local anesthetics to numb the gums and tooth roots. While you may feel some pressure or a "scraping" sensation, you should not feel sharp pain. For patients with high dental anxiety or particularly sensitive roots, we offer various sedation options to ensure a relaxed experience.

How long does the deep cleaning appointment take?

Because scaling and root planing is much more meticulous than a standard cleaning, it usually takes longer. Depending on the extent of the tartar buildup, we typically treat one half of the mouth (two quadrants) per session, with each session lasting approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This ensures we are thorough without causing patient fatigue.

Can I go back to work immediately after my appointment?

Yes, most patients can return to work or their normal daily routine immediately. However, if your mouth is still numb from the local anesthetic, we recommend waiting to eat until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek.