Reclaim Your Healthy Gums with Scaling and Root Planing

Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues if left untreated. If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, don’t wait—early intervention is key to preventing irreversible damage.

Travis A. Bell DDS PLLC provides scaling and root planing to reverse the effects of gum disease. Visit our Greensboro, North Carolina, office today and experience our gentle, non-surgical approach to periodontal care.

What is scaling and root planing (SRP)?

Gum disease often comes with noticeable signs. The gums may appear redder, and they may feel tender to touch. Sometimes, the gums may bleed when brushing or flossing. When the disease has progressed, the gums may recede, which may cause your teeth to appear longer. 

Periodontal disease must be treated immediately when first suspected/detected. Our office uses a conservative approach to treating gum disease. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is reversible with standard cleanings and good follow-up care.

Deep teeth cleaning with scaling and root planing is the best starting point for moderate to advanced gum disease. This procedure is safe, non-surgical, and effective. Scaling uses specialized instruments to remove unhealthy deposits from beneath the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, eliminating rough areas where bacteria can accumulate. This polishing also allows the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth.

What can I expect from the procedure?

It all starts with an examination of your gums. We’ll establish the depth of the periodontal pockets and determine if deep teeth cleaning is the best procedure. Next, the dentist will numb your gums with local anesthetics for a comfortable experience.

Your treatment may need 1 or 2 visits, depending on the severity of your infection. Our dentist treats one-half of the mouth per session to enhance comfort between the sessions.

After treatment, you may experience mild soreness, swelling, and bleeding. Your teeth may also feel sensitive after cleaning. We’ll give you pain medications to manage discomfort. Ice application may also help with swelling.

To optimize healing, stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods to avoid irritating the gums. Quit smoking and gently brush and floss your teeth to keep your mouth clean. Attend follow-up visits to monitor healing and prevent further gum disease. You may notice less tenderness, inflammation, and bleeding as your gums heal.

What are the benefits of scaling and root planing also known as SRP?

Overcome gum disease with deep teeth cleaning and enjoy the following benefits.

  • Fresh breath—SRP eliminates unhealthy deposits trapped beneath the gum line for fresher breath.
  • Improved comfort—reduce teeth sensitivity by removing irritants that prevent your gums from staying healthy. 
  • Prevent further damage—SRP is effective in gum disease treatment, preventing tooth loss and other health complications.
  • Better systemic health—deep teeth cleaning reduces the risk of heart disease, can help you better manage diabetes, and other illnesses linked to gum disease.

Do you need scaling and root planing in Greensboro, NC?

Travis A Bell DDS PLLC maintains healthy gums with scaling and root planing services. Call (336) 274-8386 if you suspect gum disease and book your visit with Drs. Travis A. Bell and Janna C Matko. Our Greensboro office welcomes patients from the surrounding locations of Winston-Salem, Belews Creek, Clemmons, Colfax, East Bend, High Point, Colfax, Kernersville, Burlington, Reidsville, Thomasville, Graham, Asheboro, Browns Summit, and beyond.