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What Is Scaling and Root Planing? Gainesville, GA
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Have you been told you need a “deep cleaning” at your next dental visit? This is likely because your routine checkup showed evidence of gum disease. A deep cleaning, otherwise known as a scaling and root planing procedure, is nothing to fear. In fact, it is a painless treatment that can save your oral health and quality of life from the progression of periodontal disease.

To understand the importance of scaling and root planing, it is helpful to understand just how serious gum disease can be if it is not treated properly. Gum disease involves irritation and infection in the supportive soft tissues of your smile. Once the gums are infected, they can pull away from the tooth root, forming deep pockets that harbor even more bacteria and foster additional damage. Left untreated, gum disease can cause the teeth to lose stability, leading to tooth loss and surrounding bone destruction. To take it one step further, the consequences of gum disease can go beyond your mouth to impact your heart and other areas of your body. Needless to say, gum disease needs to be treated.

One of the most effective and proven ways to address signs of mild to moderate gum disease is with scaling and root planing (SRP). Not only can this procedure prevent gum disease from progressing, it can also help to reverse some of the existing damage. SRP if often a first line of defense that can help patients avoid more invasive periodontal treatments.

What Happens During Scaling and Root Planing?

As its name implies, there are two steps involved in a scaling and root planing procedure:

Scaling: Using a combination of special handheld instruments and ultrasonic tools, your dentist will scrape and loosen the calculus and hardened plaque on the tooth and tooth root.

Root planing: Next, the surface of you tooth roots will be smoothed out. This encourages the gums to reattach.

If you need SRP, you can expect to come in for more than one visit. Typically, only one or two quadrants of your mouth are cleaned at a time. You can expect mild soreness from a deep cleaning, but the discomfort is only temporary. To learn more about why you’ve been told you need scaling and root planing, please give us a call. At Gainesville Dental Group, we welcome the opportunity to help patients avoid the devastating consequences of gum disease.

Posted on behalf of Gainesville Dental Group

Our Patient Reviews

Bev M.

Very happy with the staff at Gainesville Dental Group. The doctors are caring and experienced. I never am left in the waiting room. The hygienist always ask thorough questions and report to the doctor before the exam, saving me from having to repeat everything. Highly recommend.

Dennis C.

I came to Gainesville Dental Group with a crown that was in bad shape and painful. Dr. Vetter was very knowledgeable about what needed to be done and went to great lengths to ensure the treatment to resolve the problem was in my best interest. He and assistant Sarah Riley were very professional yet personable. They worked together seamlessly in a manner that put me at ease and were very focused on fixing the tooth. Any physical discomfort was minimal and both Dr. Vetter and Sarah were encouraging and positive. A very good experience.

Sarah R.

I come to Gainesville Dental Group for my routine cleanings and absolutely love it! It’s very clean and I love how up to date they are with digital X-rays and photos of the teeth. I had to have a filling and they were able to point out on the screen where my cavity was on the X-ray. It’s much easier getting the work done when you have an understanding of what the doctor is doing! Dr. Vetter did my filling and the whole procedure was pain free! I can’t say enough good things about this group!

Linda H.

Dr. Gannon and Hannah were great. They talked me thru my procedure and made sure I was comfortable and pain free. The office was friendly and pleasant. My hubby and son have used them and liked them. I've found a new dentist! Thank You GDG.

Candace C.

Since I started my orthodontic treatment fifteen months ago, the staff at Gainesville Dental Group have been exceptional. Dr. Vetter is so kind and energetic and Kim puts you at ease while she works miracles! I am thrilled at my results and that they worked within my timeframe. I gladly recommend The Gainesville Dental Group for a personalized experience. Thank you!

Kayla B.

The whole office staff is amazing! Super friendly and helpful. Dr. Gannon has always been very nice and does great work! My husband sees Dr. Vetter and has only good things to say as well. I highly recommend this office!

Lorrie M.

This is by far the best dental group I have been to in a long time. The staff is wonderful and caring. From the front office to the Dentists are a class act. Very kind and explain step by step. High quality work. Don't plan on going anywhere else. My husband has had the same experience. Do yourself a favor and check them out. Tell them Lorrie sent you

Bruce Y.

Great dental visit! Went in for annual cleaning and x-rays. Donna did an awesome job and pointed out a potential issue which she brought up to the doctor who concurred. It was an excellent visit. Thank you to the "team" @ Gainesville Dental Group.

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Contact Us

1026 Thompson Bridge Road
Gainesville GA, 30501

Tel: (770) 297-0401

Opening Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Our office is open for normal business hours and we are following all ADA/CDC guidelines to ensure staff and patient safety.