Address Gum Disease With a Deeper Cleaning
When gum disease affects areas below the gumline, a routine cleaning may not be enough. Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces beneath the gums. Call 503-255-1506 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lee Cowles at Cowles Dental Care.
Dr. Cowles provides scaling and root planing for patients in Portland, Oregon. He will examine your gums and teeth to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your periodontal health.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth-root surfaces to help remove buildup. The procedure is designed to treat gum disease; the areas treated and number of visits depend on your needs.
Gum redness, tenderness, or bleeding can have different causes. An examination is needed to assess your gums and recommend appropriate care. Early gum inflammation may be managed with a professional cleaning and daily brushing and flossing, while deeper gum disease may require scaling and root planing.
What to Expect During Treatment
Dr. Cowles will explain the recommended treatment before it begins. The areas being treated may be cleaned over one or more visits. Your comfort and the extent of buildup will help determine the approach.
After treatment, follow the home-care instructions provided by our team and return for follow-up visits as recommended. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your gums and discuss any additional care that may be needed.
Support Your Gum Health
Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth help control plaque. Keep your regular dental appointments so changes in your gum health can be assessed. If you notice persistent gum bleeding, swelling, tenderness, or changes around your teeth, contact Cowles Dental Care to discuss an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scaling and root planing the same as a regular cleaning?
No. A routine cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, while scaling and root planing is a deeper cleaning that addresses buildup below the gumline when recommended.
Does everyone with gingivitis need scaling and root planing?
No. The recommended care depends on the condition of your gums. An examination helps determine whether a routine professional cleaning or deeper treatment is appropriate.
How many appointments will I need?
The number of visits depends on the areas that need treatment and your individual needs. Dr. Cowles will explain the recommended plan before treatment begins.
What should I do after scaling and root planing?
Follow the care instructions from your dental team, maintain daily oral hygiene, and attend recommended follow-up visits so your gum health can be monitored.
Schedule a Gum Health Evaluation
If you have concerns about your gums or have been advised to consider a deep cleaning, contact Cowles Dental Care in Portland, Oregon. Call 503-255-1506 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lee Cowles.