Scaling and Root Planing
A deep cleaning below the gumline that treats gum disease and helps gums heal.
About scaling and root planingGum care
Gum disease treatment in Herriman
Gums that bleed when you brush are easy to ignore, but they are often the first sign of gum disease. The good news is that it can be treated, and early care often works best.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by germs in plaque. In the early stage, called gingivitis, your gums get red and may bleed. If it is not treated, it can spread below the gumline, harm the bone that holds your teeth and lead to loose teeth.
- Early gum disease can often be turned around with good care
- It often does not hurt, so checkups matter
- Treatment depends on how far it has gone
Signs you may need gum care
Gum disease can sneak up on you because it usually starts without pain. Ask us for a gum check if you notice:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy or tender gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste that will not go away
- Gums that pull back and make teeth look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or a bite that feels different
- Pus between your teeth and gums
Some things raise your risk, such as smoking or vaping, diabetes, pregnancy, some medicines and a family history of gum problems. Your dentist measures the small space between each tooth and gum and may take x-rays to see the bone. That tells us what stage you are in and which care fits.
How gum disease is treated
The goal is to clear out the infection, help your gums heal and stop the damage from getting worse. Your plan depends on your stage.
Early stage (gingivitis)
A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar. We show you how to brush and floss along the gumline, and we may suggest a rinse or toothpaste that fights germs. With steady home care, gums often look and feel healthy again within a few weeks.
Moderate stage (periodontitis)
When germs have moved below the gumline, a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing is often the next step. Your dentist may also use a medicine placed in the gums or taken by mouth. Some patients ask about laser-assisted gum therapy as part of their plan.
Advanced stage
If bone and gum tissue have been lost, you may need more care, such as gum surgery or bone grafting. If that is the case, we explain your choices and may refer you to a gum specialist.
Keeping your gums healthy after treatment
Gum disease can come back, so home care and follow-up visits are a big part of treatment.
- Brush twice a day with a soft brush, angled toward the gumline.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss, picks or a water flosser.
- Come in for gum care visits as often as your dentist suggests. For many people that is every three or four months at first.
- If you smoke or vape, quitting helps your gums heal.
Call us if your gums start to bleed again, feel sore or look puffy.
Cost and insurance
Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.
FAQ
Questions about gum disease treatment
Can gum disease go away on its own?
Gingivitis can often be reversed with a cleaning and better daily care. Once the bone is affected, the damage usually cannot be undone, but treatment can help stop it from getting worse.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I floss?
A little bleeding is common when you first start flossing. If it keeps happening after a week or two of daily flossing, it is worth having your gums checked.
Can gum disease affect the rest of my body?
Research has linked gum disease with other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. Keeping your gums healthy is one part of caring for your overall health.
How long does it take for gums to heal?
Mild gum problems often improve in a few weeks. After a deep cleaning, gums may feel tender for a few days, and full healing can take several weeks. We check your progress at a follow-up visit.
Will insurance help pay for gum treatment?
Many dental plans cover part of gum treatment. We check your benefits and go over the cost with you before treatment starts.
Related care
You may also want to know about
Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy
Gum disease care that uses a dental laser to help clean gum pockets, often with a deep cleaning.
About laser-assisted periodontal therapyDental Cleanings and Checkups
Routine visits that remove plaque and tartar and check your teeth and gums.
About dental cleanings and checkupsQuestions?
Call to book your visit
Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.