Scaling and Root Planing in New York
Treat gum disease with scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar to promote healthier gums.
The First Step to Healthy Gums: Deep Cleaning in Plainview & Long Island
If you've been told that your gums need more than just a standard cleaning, it's the first crucial step toward protecting your smile from the serious effects of gum disease. At Meadowbrook Dental, we provide therapeutic scaling and root planing, often called a "deep cleaning," for our patients in Plainview and across Long Island. This non-surgical procedure is the gold standard for treating the initial stages of periodontitis (gum disease), removing harmful bacteria from below the gum line to halt the progression of the disease and get your oral health back on track.
A regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a preventive measure that removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line. Deep cleaning is a medically necessary treatment for when bacteria have already started to cause an infection below the gum line, creating "pockets" between your teeth and gums. A regular cleaning cannot reach these areas. Scaling and root planing are designed to clean these pockets thoroughly and create a healthy environment for your gums to heal.
The procedure involves two essential parts:
Scaling: Our skilled hygienist will meticulously remove all the hardened plaque (tartar or calculus) and bacterial buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and, most importantly, deep below the gum line within the periodontal pockets.
Root Planing: After the tartar is removed, the roots of your teeth are carefully smoothed. This smooth surface makes it much more difficult for bacteria to re-adhere and helps your gums heal and reattach snugly to your teeth, reducing pocket depth.
Your Deep Cleaning Questions Answered
1. What is the main difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning? The key difference is the depth. A regular cleaning focuses on the visible parts of your teeth, above the gum line. A deep cleaning is a therapeutic treatment that cleans the root surfaces of your teeth below the gum line inside the infected periodontal pockets. It is the specific treatment for active gum disease.
2. Will the scaling and root planing procedure hurt? No. Patient comfort is a top priority. Before the procedure begins, we will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you are completely comfortable and do not feel any pain. Your comfort is our commitment.
3. How long will the appointment take? Because a deep cleaning is very thorough, it is typically broken up into two appointments. We will usually treat one side of your mouth (upper and lower) at the first visit, and the other side at the second visit. Each appointment generally lasts about 60-90 minutes.
4. What can I expect after the procedure? It is normal to experience some minor tenderness and sensitivity in your gums for a few days as they heal. Rinsing with warm salt water can be soothing. Any discomfort is typically mild and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You will also notice that your gums look healthier and less inflamed as they heal.
5. Do I still need regular cleanings after a deep cleaning? After a deep cleaning, you will move on to a special cleaning schedule called "periodontal maintenance." Because you have a history of gum disease, these appointments are more frequent than a standard six-month cleaning (usually every 3-4 months) to ensure we keep the bacteria under control and prevent the disease from recurring.
Why Trust Our Team for Your Periodontal Health
Treating gum disease is a critical part of protecting your overall health. Choosing a team that is thorough, gentle, and committed to your long-term success is essential.
1. A Highly Skilled and Gentle Hygiene Team: Our dental hygienists have advanced training in periodontal therapy and are the frontline experts in performing this procedure. They combine clinical skill with a gentle, compassionate approach to ensure patients in both Plainview and across Long Island are comfortable and receive the best possible care.
2. A Commitment to Halting Gum Disease: Our primary goal is to stop the progression of periodontal disease in its tracks to prevent bone loss and save your teeth. We view scaling and root planing as a foundational therapy to restore your oral health.
3. Modern Tools for Patient Comfort: We utilize modern ultrasonic scalers, which can make tartar removal more efficient and comfortable for many patients. This technology, combined with effective local anesthesia, ensures a positive treatment experience.
4. A Partner in Your Long-Term Health: A deep cleaning is the start of a new chapter in your oral health journey. We are your dedicated partners, providing you with a personalized periodontal maintenance plan and the education you need to maintain your healthy gums at home.
5. Clear Communication and a Judgment-Free Zone: We understand a gum disease diagnosis can be concerning. We take the time to explain the procedure, answer all your questions, and provide care in a supportive, judgment-free environment, empowering you to take control of your oral health.
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