Scaling and root planing, more commonly known as deep cleaning by patients, is a treatment used to tackle the effects of gum disease. In cases where the symptoms of the condition are caught early, scaling and root planing can even be used to reverse the infection. If you hear that you require a deep cleaning to tackle the symptoms of gum disease, the first question to likely pop into your head is, “How much is this going to cost me?”. Read on to learn more about what scaling and root planing is and some factors to consider when it comes to cost.
What is Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that can take place over one or two appointments, depending on the extent of your tartar build-up. It’s used to treat gum disease by removing all plaque and tartar located above and below the gumline, minimizing bacteria accumulation within the mouth.
First, your dental hygienist will numb your mouth to make sure you remain comfortable throughout your cleaning. They will then remove all tartar and plaque from the surface of your teeth before moving down to the roots to clear away hardened pockets of bacteria from them. This is completed with the goal of helping the gums healthily reattach to the tooth, protecting the vulnerable roots from infection and minimizing symptoms of gum disease.
How to Tell if You Need Scaling & Root Planing?
Because gum disease has an early and late stage, patients can experience a wide spectrum of different symptoms. These include:
- Gum inflammation and redness
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Sore gums
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Gum recession that makes the teeth look longer
- Loose teeth
- Pain while chewing
Your dentist and hygienist will also screen for gum disease at each of your routine checkups and cleanings, which is why going every six months is so important!
Breaking Down the Cost of Scaling & Root Planing
The cost of scaling and root planing can vary based on a variety of factors, which is why it’s hard to put a single price tag on the procedure. Some of those details can include your geographical location and whether you have dental insurance. However, before your procedure ever begins, your dental office will provide you with a detailed estimate of the treatment, including a breakdown of any dental insurance benefits that will apply to it. This will let you know how much you’ll be required to pay out-of-pocket.
Even if you’re uninsured, today, many dental offices offer in-house membership plans for set costs, including special periodontal maintenance plans. These typically include regular cleanings, examinations, X-rays, and other services and discounts that can be applied to your treatments throughout the year.
Although hearing that you need a deep cleaning may be scary, rest assured, it’s not entirely bad news! With proactive scaling and root planing, in many cases, dentists are able to help control and even reverse signs of gum disease to get your oral health back on the right track.
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh truly cares for his patients and wants to help them meet their unique needs and goals, which is why he believes in taking the time to build great relationships with everyone who comes to see him. He offers a wide range of services to boost oral health and prevent tooth loss, including scaling and root planing and antibiotic therapy to help tackle gum disease. For questions or to schedule a checkup, visit Cary Dental Rejuvenation’s website or call 919-460-5454.