Scaling & Root Planing

Bleeding gums, bad breath, or swelling may be early signs of gum disease, which can worsen without treatment. Scaling and root planing is a safe, non-surgical procedure that removes bacteria beneath the gum line to restore gum health and protect your smile. At Payam Cohen, DDS, PC, in Forest Hills, Queens, we’re pleased to offer gentle periodontal care, including scaling and root planing services. Call today to schedule your evaluation and determine if this treatment is right for you.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a type of deep cleaning done when regular dental cleanings aren’t enough. Scaling removes hardened plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, getting rid of bacteria that cause swelling and infection. Root planing smooths the tooth roots so bacteria don’t stick as easily, and gums can heal and reattach. The treatment is non-surgical – no cutting or stitches – and a local anesthetic keeps you comfortable. Depending on how advanced things are, it may take one or several visits.

When Is It Needed?

Scaling and root planing are needed when gum disease advances past gingivitis. As gums pull away from teeth, pockets form that trap bacteria, and routine brushing and flossing can no longer reach the infection.

You may benefit from this treatment if you experience:

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Tender, swollen, or receding gums
• Bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene
• Shifting or loosening teeth
• Visible tartar buildup under the gums

A periodontal exam measures pocket depth and may include X-rays. Pockets deeper than three millimeters with buildup typically require scaling and root planing.

Who May Not Need This Procedure?

Not every patient with gum concerns requires scaling and root planing. Those with very mild gingivitis often respond well to regular dental cleanings and improved at-home care. On the other hand, patients with advanced periodontitis and significant bone loss may require surgical intervention instead.

Your dentist will determine whether this treatment fits your condition after evaluating pocket depth, gum attachment, and overall oral health.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

The procedure offers numerous benefits for long-term oral health.

• Stops the Progression of Gum Disease – Removing infection sources prevents further tissue and bone loss.
• Reduces Pocket Depth – Shallow pockets make it easier to clean at home and maintain healthy gums.
• Encourages Gum Reattachment – Smoothed root surfaces allow tissue to reattach, strengthening tooth support.
• Improves Daily Comfort – Swollen, tender gums often feel better after treatment.
• Restores Fresh Breath – Removing bacteria reduces odor-causing compounds.
• Helps Preserve Teeth – Addressing disease early lowers the risk of future tooth loss.

Gum disease is linked to heart issues, diabetes complications, and respiratory problems. Treating it with scaling and root planing supports both oral and overall health.

What Happens During Treatment

Your visit starts with a careful look at your gums. The dentist or hygienist goes over the procedure with you, answers any questions, and uses a local anesthetic to keep things comfortable. The first step is scaling, where tools or an ultrasonic device remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots. The ultrasonic vibrations break up the buildup while rinsing bacteria away with water.

Next comes root planing, which smooths rough root surfaces so gums can heal and reattach more securely. For comfort, treatment is often divided into quadrants. Before you leave, you’ll receive clear instructions for caring for your gums at home.

What Recovery Looks Like

Most people go back to their normal routines the same day, though their gums might feel a little sore or swollen. Eating soft foods, rinsing with warm salt water, and taking over-the-counter medicine can help with discomfort. Follow-up visits are important to check healing and measure pocket depth. If things look better, you’ll move to maintenance cleanings every few months. Deeper pockets may need antibiotics or more treatment. Good brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial rinses help keep results, while smoking can slow healing and make gum disease worse.

Alternatives and Complementary Options

Scaling and root planing is the standard first step for gum disease beyond gingivitis. However, complementary options may enhance outcomes:

• Local Antibiotics – Placed directly into gum pockets to control bacteria
• Systemic Antibiotics – Occasionally prescribed if infection risks spreading
• Laser Therapy – Used in some cases to disinfect tissues and promote healing
• Surgical Approaches – Recommended for advanced stages with deep pockets or severe bone loss

Your dentist will guide you in selecting the most effective combination based on your needs.

Why You Should Choose Professional Treatment

Attempting to manage gum disease at home without professional intervention often fails because bacteria beneath the gum line remain untouched. Only dental professionals can reach these areas safely.

At Payam Cohen DDS, PC, patients benefit from modern techniques, advanced diagnostic tools, and individualized care. Each case is approached with precision and empathy, ensuring you feel comfortable throughout the process. The goal is not only to treat the disease but also to protect your smile for years to come.

Prevention After Treatment

Maintaining results requires consistent oral hygiene and professional care. Here are strategies to protect your investment:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily or use interdental brushes to reach tight spaces.
• Use antimicrobial mouth rinses to control bacteria.
• Maintain professional cleanings every three to four months.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks to reduce bacterial growth.
• Stay hydrated to keep saliva flowing and protect gums.
• Manage systemic conditions, such as diabetes, that affect gum health.

Lifestyle habits matter. Quitting smoking or vaping can dramatically improve gum response to treatment and lower reinfection risk.

Long-Term Impact of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing can transform gum health when performed early. Many patients avoid tooth loss, costly surgeries, and chronic discomfort by choosing this non-surgical option. Gums become healthier, pockets shrink, and daily oral hygiene becomes more effective.

Beyond your mouth, addressing periodontal disease lowers the risks of systemic issues. Scientific studies show connections between untreated gum infection and cardiovascular concerns, pregnancy complications, and uncontrolled diabetes. Treating your gums can benefit your entire body.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums

Don’t ignore early warning signs of gum disease. Scaling and root planing is a proven, effective solution for reversing its progression and protecting your smile.

Schedule your consultation with Payam Cohen, DDS, PC, in Forest Hills, Queens, today. Our compassionate team is ready to help you achieve lasting gum health and preserve your natural teeth.