Dr. Steven Holbrook has decades of experience diagnosing and treating gum disease in Albuquerque. He performs scaling and root planing with precision and care, helping patients restore gum health and prevent further tissue or bone loss.
Why You Might Need a Deep Cleaning
Scaling and root planing is typically recommended when signs of gum disease are present — such as bleeding gums, deep periodontal pockets, bad breath, or early gum recession. During a dental exam, Dr. Holbrook will measure the space between your teeth and gums. If these pockets are deeper than 3 millimeters and filled with tartar or bacteria, a deep cleaning is often the first step in treatment.
What Happens During the Procedure
The treatment is typically completed in two appointments, depending on the severity of the gum disease and the number of affected areas.
- Scaling involves using specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. This helps eliminate the bacterial buildup that causes inflammation.
- Root planing smooths the root surfaces of the teeth, which helps the gums reattach more easily and reduces the chance of future plaque accumulation.
Local anesthetics are typically used to numb the treatment areas, allowing patients to remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Aftercare and Recovery
You may experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days after treatment. Dr. Holbrook may recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush, a saltwater rinse, or a prescription mouthwash to promote healing. Most patients can resume normal activities the same day, though it’s important to avoid smoking or eating hard foods immediately after treatment.
Follow-up visits help monitor healing and ensure the gums are responding well. In many cases, deep cleaning alone is sufficient to halt disease progression and promote healthier gum tissue.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Scaling and root planing can help you avoid more invasive treatments in the future. If you’ve been told you have gum disease, or you’re noticing symptoms like bleeding or tenderness, contact Dr. Holbrook’s Albuquerque office at 505-881-1159 to schedule an evaluation. Early care leads to better results.
