Treat Gum Disease at Its Source
Gum disease begins when plaque and tartar build up along and below the gumline, causing inflammation that can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. When the condition advances beyond what a routine cleaning can address, scaling and root planing offers a non-surgical way to remove harmful deposits, reduce bacterial infection and give your gums a chance to heal.
At Konstantinos Proussaefs DDS Inc., Dr. Proussaefs provides scaling and root planing in Simi Valley, CA for patients with early to moderate periodontal disease. Each treatment is based on a thorough evaluation of your gum health, pocket depths and X-ray findings so the approach fits your specific condition.
Concerned about bleeding gums, gum tenderness or signs of gum disease? Call 805-526-8296 to schedule a periodontal evaluation with Dr. Proussaefs.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a two-part deep cleaning procedure designed to treat gum disease by removing the bacterial deposits that cause it and creating conditions for the gums to heal.
Scaling is the process of carefully removing plaque, tartar and bacterial toxins from the tooth surfaces and from below the gumline. These deposits accumulate in areas that a toothbrush and floss cannot reach, especially inside periodontal pockets that form as gum disease progresses.
Root planing smooths the root surfaces of the teeth after tartar has been removed. Rough or irregular root surfaces can harbor bacteria and make it more difficult for gum tissue to reattach to the tooth. By smoothing these surfaces, root planing helps reduce areas where bacteria can accumulate and supports the natural healing process.
Unlike a routine dental cleaning, which focuses on the visible surfaces of the teeth and just above the gumline, scaling and root planing addresses buildup deeper below the gumline where active gum disease is present.
Signs You May Need a Deep Cleaning
Gum disease does not always cause noticeable pain, especially in its earlier stages. However, certain symptoms may indicate that your gums need more than a routine cleaning. Contact our office if you experience:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or cleaning between your teeth
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position
- Discomfort or sensitivity along the gumline
- Pus between the gums and teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
During your evaluation, Dr. Proussaefs measures the depth of your periodontal pockets and reviews X-rays to determine whether scaling and root planing is appropriate for your situation.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Dr. Proussaefs evaluates gum health and considers the condition of the gums and teeth before discussing scaling and root planing.
That experience allows him to assess the severity of your condition, identify which areas of the mouth need the most attention and determine the most appropriate course of treatment. He evaluates gum health in the context of your entire smile, including any existing restorations such as crowns, bridges or fillings that may be affected by periodontal disease.
When additional antimicrobial therapy may benefit your treatment outcome, Dr. Proussaefs can also place Arestin, a locally applied antibiotic, directly into treated periodontal pockets to help reduce bacteria during the healing process.
What to Expect After Treatment
After scaling and root planing, your gums need time to heal and respond to the treatment. Most patients notice gradual improvement in gum color, firmness and overall comfort as inflammation subsides.
During the initial healing period, it is common to experience some mild sensitivity to temperature or tenderness around the treated areas. These symptoms typically resolve within several days. Dr. Proussaefs will provide specific post-treatment guidance to help you stay comfortable and support healing.
A follow-up appointment is scheduled so Dr. Proussaefs can evaluate how your gums are responding and determine the next steps. In most cases, patients transition to regularly scheduled periodontal maintenance visits to monitor gum health, manage bacterial buildup and help prevent gum disease from returning.
Consistent home care between visits, including thorough brushing and cleaning between your teeth, plays an important role in maintaining the results of your deep cleaning.
Why Choose Konstantinos Proussaefs DDS Inc. for Gum Disease Treatment?
Patients seeking treatment for gum disease in Simi Valley, CA benefit from a dentist who understands periodontal health in the context of overall dental care. Dr. Proussaefs provides scaling and root planing as part of a comprehensive approach that also includes evaluation of your teeth, existing restorations and long-term oral health goals.
Dr. Proussaefs explains the examination findings, discusses treatment options and answers questions about what to expect. The practice emphasizes honesty and clear communication throughout care.
From your initial evaluation through deep cleaning and into ongoing periodontal maintenance, our team is focused on helping you understand your condition and take an active role in protecting your gum health.
The Scaling and Root Planing Process
Your treatment is planned around the severity of your gum condition and which areas of your mouth are affected.
Evaluating Your Gums
Dr. Proussaefs examines your gums, measures periodontal pockets and reviews X-rays to determine the severity and location of gum disease.
Scaling Below the Gumline
Tartar and bacterial deposits are carefully removed from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach.
Smoothing the Root Surfaces
Root surfaces are smoothed to help reduce areas where bacteria can accumulate and to support gum tissue reattachment.
Healing and Follow-Up
Your gums are given time to heal and respond to treatment. Follow-up visits help monitor your progress and determine ongoing care.