Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar

Chris Whetstone, DDS, Inc.

Thousand Oaks Gentle Dentistry

(805) 496-9393

UCLA Graduate

Click Here to View Our Special Offers
Menu
  • Home
  • Our Practice
  • About Us
    • Meet the Doctor
    • Meet the Staff
    • Our Office
  • Our Services
    • Dental Hygiene
    • Dental Implants
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
      • Lumineers
      • Veneers
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Snap On Smile
      • Bonding
      • Inlays & Onlays
    • Restorative
      • Crowns & Bridgework
      • Dentures
      • Bonding
    • Pediatric
      • Sealants
      • Mouth Guards
    • Periodontic
      • Biopsy
      • Occlusal Adjustment
      • Scaling & Root Planing
    • Oral Surgery
      • Extractions
      • Facial Trauma
      • Oral Pathology
    • Orthodontics
      • Night Guards
      • TMJ
  • Affordability
  • Our Technology
    • Intraoral Camera
    • Oral Cancer Screenings
  • Testimonials
  • Patient Resources
    • New Patient Forms
    • Educational Videos
    • Q & A
    • Links
    • Post-Op Instructions
  • Contact Us
  • Special Offers

Scaling & Root Planing

Gingivitis is a generative disease that left untreated, will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration.  Just the word gingivitis can strike panic in a patient’s mind. The reality is that the treatment is simple and performed right in your dentist’s office. 

Plaque and tarter that sits on the teeth provides an environment, which allows bacteria to thrive and multiply.  The bacteria cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed. The condition becomes more noticeable when you brush your teeth or sometimes when you eat. These are signs of the early stage of gingivitis. Gingivitis is easily treated by having the hygienist scale and polish the teeth.  If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will progress and the roots will need a planing. The difference between scaling and root planing is simple. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth structure. 

As a non-surgical procedure, scaling and planing is performed without any anesthesia, in the dentist’s office. While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing is usually broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment. This allows for adequate healing time, and reduces the time for each appointment.

  • Dental Education Library
    • Oral Health Topics
    • Tooth Care
    • Dental Problems
    • Treatment
      • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Pain Management
    • Patient Information
    • Product Reviews
    • Glossary
    • Links
  • Copyright © 2023 MH Sub I, LLC dba Officite.
  • Admin Log In
  • Site Map