Scaling & Root Planing in Jackson, TN
Scaling and root planing is the most effective non-surgical treatment for gum disease, and at McLemore & McLemore, DDS we use this proven procedure to stop periodontal disease in its tracks before it causes irreversible damage. If you have been told you have deep pockets, tartar buildup below the gumline, or signs of active gum disease, a deep cleaning may be exactly what your smile needs. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to schedule your evaluation.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing — also called a deep cleaning — is a two-part non-surgical procedure that removes tartar, plaque, and bacterial toxins from both above and below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces of the teeth to encourage healthy gum tissue reattachment and discourage future bacterial buildup.
In the scaling phase, our team carefully removes all deposits of hardened tartar from the tooth surfaces and from within the pockets that have formed between the teeth and gums. Healthy gum pockets measure one to three millimeters; in patients with gum disease, these pockets can deepen significantly — creating spaces where bacteria thrive and cause ongoing destruction of the gum tissue and bone. Standard prophylaxis cleanings cannot reach these deeper pockets, which is why scaling and root planing is necessary.
In the root planing phase, the surfaces of the tooth roots are carefully smoothed to remove residual bacterial toxins embedded in the root structure. Smooth root surfaces are harder for bacteria to adhere to and allow the inflamed gum tissue to heal and reattach more effectively over time.
What to Expect During Treatment
At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, scaling and root planing is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Depending on the extent of the disease, treatment may be completed in one appointment or divided into two sessions — one for each side of the mouth — to allow for proper healing. If you prefer local anesthesia, please let our team know before we begin and we will make sure you are comfortable.
We may use both traditional hand scaling instruments and an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibration and water to efficiently break up and remove deposits. In some cases, an antibiotic or antimicrobial gel is placed directly into the pockets between the teeth and gums after cleaning to further reduce infection and support healing.
Following your deep cleaning, our team will schedule a follow-up visit to evaluate how your gums have responded to treatment. Many patients see significant improvement in pocket depths and gum inflammation within a few weeks. Patients who have undergone scaling and root planing typically transition to a periodontal maintenance schedule of visits every three to four months to keep gum disease controlled long-term.
If you have questions about scaling and root planing or want to find out if it is the right treatment for you, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS today at (731) 424-2651 in Jackson, TN.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling & Root Planing
What is scaling and root planing and why is it necessary?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes tartar and bacterial deposits from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to encourage gum tissue healing. It is necessary when gum disease has progressed beyond what a standard prophylaxis can address, and pockets between the teeth and gums have deepened due to infection and inflammation.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia at McLemore & McLemore, DDS, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some tenderness and mild sensitivity in the gums is normal for a few days afterward as the tissue heals. Over-the-counter pain relievers are typically sufficient for any post-procedure discomfort.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
Depending on the extent of the disease, the procedure can be completed in one visit or split into two appointments treating one side of the mouth at a time. Each session typically takes one to two hours. Our team at McLemore & McLemore, DDS will give you a clear timeline based on your specific needs.
How many scaling and root planing treatments will I need?
Most patients require one course of treatment. After your gums have healed, we will evaluate your response and determine whether additional treatment is needed. Going forward, you will likely transition to a periodontal maintenance schedule to prevent recurrence.
What is the difference between scaling and root planing and a regular cleaning?
A standard cleaning (prophylaxis) addresses plaque and tartar at and above the gumline and is appropriate for patients with healthy gums. Scaling and root planing goes deeper — below the gumline and along the root surfaces — and is specifically designed to treat active gum disease where pockets have formed.
Will my gums improve after scaling and root planing?
Yes. Most patients experience a meaningful reduction in pocket depths, inflammation, and bleeding after scaling and root planing, provided they also maintain good at-home oral hygiene and keep up with their follow-up appointments. Early treatment yields the best outcomes.
How do I know if I need scaling and root planing?
Signs that you may need a deep cleaning include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and pockets deeper than three millimeters measured during a dental exam. Contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS at (731) 424-2651 to schedule a periodontal evaluation in Jackson, TN.
