Scaling and Root Planing in Northville
At The Practice of Periodontist Samir Zakaria, DDS, MSD, scaling and root planing is one of our most commonly performed treatments for periodontal disease — a deep cleaning that removes buildup gum disease feeds on.
Request an AppointmentWhy This Procedure Is Needed
Scaling and root planing removes tartar that builds up along and below your gumline. Over time, gums can start to pull away from teeth, creating pockets where bacteria and food particles collect and thrive — fueling further gum disease if left untreated.
The Most Effective Non-Surgical Treatment
Scaling and root planing is widely considered the most effective non-surgical way to treat gum disease. We use local anesthetic to numb the area before the procedure when needed, so let us know if you’d prefer numbing before we begin — comfort is a priority throughout treatment.
What the Procedure Involves
The treatment cleans tartar and other buildup off the visible tooth surface, as well as between the gums and teeth below the gumline. We use both standard hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaling tool depending on what your case calls for. In some situations, a localized antibiotic is placed between the tooth and gum to help control infection directly at the source — learn more about this on our Local Delivery of Antibiotics page.
What Happens After Treatment
Many patients see meaningful improvement in gum health after scaling and root planing alone, though some cases benefit from a follow-up evaluation to confirm the gums are healing properly. Ongoing home care and regular preventive periodontal treatment help keep results lasting.
If you have any questions about scaling and root planing, contact us today at (734) 542-9904.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scaling and root planing the same as a regular cleaning?
No, it’s a deeper treatment that removes tartar buildup below the gumline and smooths the tooth root, which a standard cleaning doesn’t reach.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is available if you’d prefer numbing before the procedure, so discomfort can be minimized based on your preference.
How do I know if I need this treatment instead of a regular cleaning?
If you have signs of gum disease, such as pockets forming between the teeth and gums, scaling and root planing is typically recommended over a standard cleaning.
Will I need antibiotics after this procedure?
Sometimes. A localized antibiotic may be placed between the tooth and gum in cases where infection needs additional targeted treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients experience mild sensitivity for a few days, with gums typically healing and reattaching over the following weeks.
Will I need surgery if scaling and root planing doesn’t fully resolve my gum disease?
Not necessarily. Many patients see significant improvement from this treatment alone, with surgery reserved for cases where non-surgical treatment isn’t enough.
How do I schedule this treatment?
Call our office at (734) 542-9904 to schedule an evaluation and find out if scaling and root planing is right for you.
