Scaling And Root Planing
Reclaim Your Smile with Deep Cleaning from a Trusted Chicago Dentist
If your gums bleed when you brush, or your breath isn’t as fresh as it used to be, your body may be signaling the early stages of gum disease. Don’t ignore it—periodontal disease is progressive and can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and other systemic health problems. The good news? With timely care, it’s entirely manageable. One of the most effective non-surgical treatments available is called scaling and root planing, often referred to as a “deep cleaning.”
At Cameo Dental Specialists, our expert periodontists and hygienists perform this essential procedure with precision and care. If you’ve been searching for a trusted Chicago dentist to help restore your gum health, you’ve come to the right place.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical periodontal therapy designed to treat gum disease at its source—below the gumline. When plaque and tartar build-up on the roots of your teeth, it creates pockets between the gums and teeth where bacteria thrive. Over time, this leads to inflammation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
The Two-Part Process:
- Scaling involves the careful removal of plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the tooth surfaces, especially below the gum line and in periodontal pockets.
- Root Planing smooths root surfaces, helping the gums reattach to the teeth and making it harder for bacteria to accumulate again.
This treatment helps stop the progression of gum disease, promotes healing, and reduces the depth of periodontal pockets.
Why Would You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
This procedure is typically recommended for patients diagnosed with gingivitis or early-to-moderate periodontitis, especially when routine cleanings are no longer sufficient.
You might need SRP if you experience:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose teeth or a change in bite alignment
- Deep pockets that form between your teeth and gums
Ignoring these symptoms allows gum disease to worsen, leading to significant oral health challenges.
The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Getting a deep cleaning can be a turning point in your oral health journey. Here’s what SRP can do for you:
Stops Disease Progression – SRP removes the root cause of inflammation—plaque and bacteria—helping to stop gum disease in its tracks.
Prevents Tooth Loss – By healing the gums and reducing pocket depth, SRP stabilizes teeth and reduces the risk of them becoming loose or falling out.
Improves Breath and Appearance – Removing hidden bacteria eliminates odor and helps your gums return to a healthy pink color, revitalizing your smile.
Protects Your General Health – Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Managing oral inflammation may help reduce your risk for these conditions.
Minimally Invasive – Unlike surgery, scaling and root planing is a conservative treatment that doesn’t require cutting or stitches.
What Happens If You Don't Get Treatment?
Avoiding or delaying scaling and root planing can lead to serious consequences:
- Worsening Gum Disease: Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a condition that leads to irreversible bone loss.
- Tooth Mobility and Loss: As the infection spreads, teeth can become loose and may eventually fall out or need extraction.
- Systemic Health Impact: Chronic oral infections may contribute to inflammation throughout the body, affecting your heart, lungs, and metabolic health.
- Costlier Treatments Later: Advanced periodontitis often requires surgical procedures and restorative work like implants or dentures.
In short, what starts as a simple inflammation can cascade into complex and costly oral health problems.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
At Cameo Dental Specialists, we make sure you’re comfortable, informed, and well cared for. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Evaluation: We assess your gum health, measure pocket depths, and may take X-rays to evaluate bone levels.
- Local Anesthesia: To ensure comfort, we numb the treatment area.
- Deep Cleaning: The hygienist or periodontist performs meticulous scaling and root planing, usually over one or two visits.
- Post-Care Instructions: You’ll receive guidance on home care, diet, and follow-up needs.
- Maintenance Plan: Periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months are often recommended after SRP to keep the disease from returning.
Our team utilizes advanced tools and a gentle approach to ensure the experience is as stress-free as possible.
Trust Cameo Dental Specialists for Gum Health in Chicago
Gum disease affects nearly half of all adults—and often without pain. That’s why early diagnosis and effective treatments, such as scaling and root planing, are so important. At Cameo Dental Specialists, our skilled providers offer compassionate care, advanced periodontal treatment, and personalized follow-up to keep your smile healthy for life.
Schedule Your Deep Cleaning Today
If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning—or you’re noticing signs of gum disease—it’s time to take action. Contact the trusted team at Cameo Dental Specialists in West Loop, River Forest, Berwyn, La Grange, or Elmhurst and get the high-quality care you deserve from an experienced Chicago dentist.
Your smile, your health, and your confidence are worth it. Call us today to schedule your scaling and root planing consultation.