Scaling and Root Planing in Woodland Hills
Bleeding when you brush, gums that feel puffy or tender, or breath that stays stale no matter how often you rinse can all be easy to dismiss in a busy week. These everyday signs often point to plaque and tartar that have moved below the gumline, where a toothbrush and floss can no longer reach. For patients in Woodland Hills who are noticing these changes or have been told they have gum disease, our team at 805 Dentistry offers scaling and root planing, a thorough deep cleaning designed to address the problem where it starts.
Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical treatment for gum disease. During scaling, we carefully remove plaque and hardened tartar from the tooth surfaces above and below the gumline, including the pockets that form when gums begin to pull away from the teeth. During root planing, we smooth the root surfaces so the gums have a cleaner surface to reattach to and bacteria have fewer rough spots to cling to.
A routine dental cleaning focuses mainly on the visible parts of your teeth and the area just at the gumline. A deep cleaning goes further, treating the spaces beneath the gums where bacteria can quietly cause irritation and, over time, contribute to more serious periodontal problems. Because we see patients of all ages and offer a full range of services, scaling and root planing fits naturally into the broader care we provide for families who travel to us from Woodland Hills and nearby communities.
Many adults are good candidates, especially those who have bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum tenderness, gums that look red or swollen, or teeth that seem to be getting longer as the gums recede. Some patients learn they need a deep cleaning during a regular dental exam, when measurements of the pockets around their teeth show that the gums are no longer fitting snugly.
The best way to know is through an evaluation in our office. We look at your gums, review your history, and use imaging when needed to understand what is happening below the surface. Our team includes a board-certified periodontist, so if your gums need more advanced attention, such as gum grafting, periodontal regeneration, or periodontal surgery, we can discuss those options with you without sending you elsewhere. Patients can come to us for periodontal care without a referral.
What happens during a scaling and root planing appointment?
Your appointment begins with an exam and a clear explanation of the areas that need treatment, so you know what to expect before we start. Depending on how many areas are involved, we may treat your mouth in sections over more than one visit.
Here is what the process generally involves:
- Numbing the areas being treated so you can stay comfortable
- Removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline
- Smoothing the root surfaces to discourage bacteria from building up again
- Reviewing home care steps and planning your follow-up visit
If dental visits make you anxious, we understand. We offer several comfort options, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, and we have a board-certified dental anesthesiologist on staff. We are happy to talk through which approach may suit you during your consultation.
How should I care for my gums afterward?
After treatment, gentle and consistent home care matters most. Your gums may feel tender or a little sensitive for a short time, so we will give you specific guidance on brushing, flossing, and anything else to keep in mind as your mouth settles.
Follow-up is an important part of the process. We will schedule a visit to see how your gums are responding, and many patients continue with periodontal maintenance, which involves cleanings planned around the needs of gums that have been treated for gum disease. Staying on that schedule helps us catch changes early and keep your care on track.
How can I pay for scaling and root planing?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and our team can help you understand how your coverage may apply before treatment begins. Because our periodontics care is billed as specialist care, we will walk you through how that may affect your claim so there are no surprises.
We also welcome self-pay patients, and financing is available for those who would like to spread out the cost of care. If you live or work in Woodland Hills and have questions about your gums, we invite you to reach out to 805 Dentistry. Dr. Dar Radfar and our team look forward to helping you understand your options and take a confident next step toward healthier gums.