Deep Dental Cleaning Services for Healthy Gums and Teeth
Are you experiencing swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, or persistent bad breath? These symptoms often indicate gum disease, a condition affecting nearly half of adults over 30 in the United States. About 47.2 percent of adults over age 30 in the U.S. have gum disease, with 8.5 percent experiencing severe periodontitis. The good news? Professional scaling and root planing can effectively treat gum disease and restore your oral health.
At Algoma Family Dentistry, our experienced dentist near you specializes in comprehensive periodontal treatment, including deep cleaning procedures that stop gum disease progression. We’re currently accepting new patients from Algoma, Bruemmerville, Forestville, Alaska, and surrounding Wisconsin communities. Schedule your appointment today by calling (920) 487-2733.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning that goes deeper under your gums than regular cleaning, serving as a common treatment for gum disease. This non-surgical periodontal procedure addresses the root cause of gum inflammation and helps prevent tooth loss.
The Two-Step Deep Cleaning Process:
Scaling Phase:
- Removes plaque and hardened tartar buildup from tooth surfaces
- Targets bacteria hiding below the gum line that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach
- Uses specialized ultrasonic instruments and manual scalers for thorough cleaning
Root Planing Phase:
- Smooths rough tooth roots where harmful bacteria typically accumulate
- Eliminates bacterial toxins that cause gum inflammation
- Promotes natural gum reattachment to tooth surfaces
- Reduces pocket depths between teeth and gums
Why Choose Professional Scaling and Root Planing?
When you choose to undergo professional scaling and root planing at Algoma Family Dentistry, there are immediate health benefits:
- Stops Gum Disease Progression: Eliminates the bacterial infection causing periodontal disease
- Reduces Gum Inflammation: Alleviates swollen, tender, and bleeding gums
- Prevents Tooth Loss: Strengthens the connection between gums and teeth
- Improves Bad Breath: Removes odor-causing bacteria from deep pockets
- Protects Overall Health: Reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections
Scaling and root planing is a cost-effective alternative to surgical periodontal treatment. It preserves natural teeth and bone structure, enhances confidence in your smile, and prevents the need for more complex dental procedures.
Signs You Need Deep Cleaning: When to Contact Our Algoma Dentist
Most people require scaling and root planing when they develop moderate to advanced gum disease. Contact our dental office near you if you’re experiencing:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Swollen, red, or tender gums that won’t improve with good oral hygiene
- Persistent bad breath or a metallic taste in your mouth
- Gum recession is making teeth appear longer than normal
- Loose or shifting teeth that feel unstable
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums (4 mm or deeper)
- Visible tartar buildup along the gum line
Professional Diagnosis Process
During your dental exam at our Algoma, WI, office, Dr. Daniel Fama will:
- Measure Pocket Depths: Using a periodontal probe to assess gum attachment levels
- Take Digital X-rays: To evaluate bone loss and hidden tartar deposits
- Review Oral Health History: Discussing symptoms, medications, and risk factors
- Develop Treatment Plan: Customizing your deep cleaning procedure based on disease severity
The Professional Scaling and Root Planing Procedure
Initial Consultation and Assessment
Our experienced dentist in Algoma will thoroughly examine your oral health, explaining the procedure in detail. We may schedule multiple appointments if treating all four quadrants of your mouth, ensuring optimal comfort and results.
Comfort and Sedation Options
Each session typically lasts one to two hours, depending on the treatment area. We can provide these options to ease your anxiety during the scaling and root planing procedure:
- Local anesthetic numbs the gums and surrounding tissues
- Nitrous oxide sedation is available for anxious patients
- Advanced pain management techniques for maximum comfort
Advanced Cleaning Technology
Our dental office utilizes state-of-the-art equipment:
- Ultrasonic scalers use gentle vibrations and water irrigation
- Manual instruments for precise tartar removal
- Antimicrobial treatments to eliminate remaining bacteria
- Laser therapy is appropriate for enhanced healing
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
Following your deep cleaning appointment, our team provides:
- Detailed aftercare instructions for optimal healing
- Prescription antibiotics if needed to prevent infection
- Recommendations for specialized oral hygiene products
- Follow-up scheduling for periodontal maintenance
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Deep Cleaning in Algoma, WI
The cost of scaling and root planing varies based on several factors:
- Severity of gum disease and number of quadrants requiring treatment
- Additional procedures such as antibiotic therapy or laser treatment
- Insurance coverage and individual plan benefits
- Payment options available at our dental office
Insurance and Financing
Many dental insurance plans cover scaling and root planing as a medically necessary procedure. Our experienced staff will:
- Verify your insurance benefits before treatment
- Submit claims directly to your insurance provider
- Explain out-of-pocket costs in advance
- Offer flexible payment plans for your convenience
Contact our office at (920) 487-2733 to discuss costs and insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients require deep cleaning only once to treat active periodontal disease. After successful treatment, regular periodontal maintenance cleanings every three to four months help prevent disease recurrence and maintain healthy gums.
With proper local anesthesia, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some sensitivity may occur for 24-48 hours following treatment, which typically resolves quickly with proper aftercare.
Initial healing occurs within the first week, with complete gum reattachment taking several weeks to months. Most patients notice reduced bleeding and inflammation within days of scaling and root planing treatment.
Untreated gum disease progresses to advanced periodontitis, potentially causing:
- Significant bone loss around teeth
- Tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss
- Increased risk of systemic health problems
- Need for more complex and expensive treatments