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Gum disease is sneaky. At first, it may show up as a little bleeding when you brush, or your gums look puffier than usual. Nothing too concerning, right? Unfortunately, if you don’t do anything about it, gum disease can progress, leading to bone loss and even tooth loss.

The good news? Dentists have a highly effective way to combat gum disease before it causes lasting damage. That’s where scaling and root planing comes in. This gum disease treatment in Delaware, OH, helps remove harmful bacteria and prevents further gum damage.

By addressing the problem early, you can protect your gums, keep your teeth strong, and avoid more intensive treatments later. Let’s take a closer look at how scaling and root planning work and why your dentist may recommend it.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing isn’t your standard dental cleaning. While a regular cleaning focuses on surface plaque and tartar, scaling and root planing goes deeper—literally.

• Scaling removes hardened plaque (tartar) from below the gumline, where bacteria love to hide.

• Root planing smooths out rough spots on your tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to stick and easier for your gums to heal.

This process helps shrink gum pockets, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to your teeth and bone.

Signs You Might Need Scaling and Root Planing

Your dentist might recommend this deep cleaning if you have:

1. Gums That Bleed When You Brush or Floss

Bleeding gums are not normal. If you see pink in the sink, it’s often a warning sign of gingivitis—the earliest stage of gum disease. If caught early, a professional cleaning might be enough, but scaling and root planing may be necessary if bacteria have already started attacking the bone.

2. Persistent Bad Breath (Even After Brushing!)

If your breath still smells bad even after brushing and flossing, bacteria trapped under your gums might be to blame. Gum disease creates deep pockets where food and bacteria get stuck. A deep cleaning helps remove the hidden sources of odor.

3. Puffy, Red, or Tender Gums

Healthy gums should be firm and pink. If they’re swollen, red, or tender, it could mean your body is fighting off an infection. Scaling and root planing helps reduce inflammation and stops the infection from spreading.

4. Loose Teeth or Gum Recession

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums—it also leads to bone loss, making your teeth loose or wobbly. If your teeth look longer than before, it’s not magic—it’s gum recession. Scaling and root planing can slow this process and help prevent tooth loss.

5. Deep Pockets Between Your Gums and Teeth

During a routine exam, your dentist measures gum pocket depth—healthy gums should have a depth of 1 to 3mm. If you have pockets deeper than 4mm, bacteria can thrive, increasing your risk of tooth and bone loss. Scaling and root planing helps shrink these pockets and restore gum health.

What Happens If You Skip Scaling and Root Planing?

Gum disease doesn’t go away on its own. Without treatment, bacteria continue to spread, leading to:

• Chronic bad breath

• Painful infections

• Severe gum recession

• Loose or lost teeth

• Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes complications

The longer you wait, the more aggressive the treatment may need to be in the future.

Don’t Wait for Gum Disease to Get Worse

If your dentist recommends scaling and root planing, it’s because your gums need help now—not later. The good news? Deep cleanings are highly effective at stopping gum disease in its tracks. With proper care, your gums can heal, and you can keep your natural teeth for years.

Need Gum Disease Treatment in Delaware, OH?

​If you're experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, it's important to address these issues promptly to maintain your oral health.  

At Turtle Creek Dental Care, led by Dr. Jonathon Falvo, our dedicated team is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. We understand that each patient's needs are unique, and we tailor our treatments to ensure your comfort and well-being.​

Don't let gum disease compromise your smile. Contact us today for an appointment!