Scaling and Root Planing

Get Attractive, Healthy Gums

Restore Your Gum Health With Scaling & Root Planing in Houston

Your gums play an important part in your overall health. We recommend regular checkups so Dr. Paul Lee and our team can monitor the condition of your whole smile. If you show signs of gum disease, Dr. Lee may recommend scaling and root planing in Houston. This gentle technique removes stubborn plaque and bacteria beneath and around your gumline.

Healthier gums help keep your teeth in place. You can also get rid of bothersome symptoms, like bad breath. Treating a gum infection can also reduce your body's exposure to harmful bacteria. This lessens your risk for serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. No insurance? Join our Membership Club for savings on care.

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Stop Gum Disease Progression With a Deep Cleaning

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that goes beyond what a traditional cleaning does. It aims to keep gum disease from progressing to a stage that poses a serious threat to your oral health. Early intervention allows us to use a minimally invasive treatment.

Don't wait to make an appointment if you notice inflamed gum tissue, bleeding when you brush or floss, swollen or tender gums, or loose, unstable teeth. You can expect a comfortable experience throughout your visit for scaling and root planing in Houston.

Thorough Exam

Dr. Lee begins with a comprehensive exam. He'll determine whether a deep cleaning is necessary for improving your gum health.

Minimizing Discomfort

It's important to us that you feel at ease during your procedure. We will numb your mouth. You won't feel a thing during your treatment.

Plaque & Tartar Removal

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar buildup in and around your gumline. It's an essential step in treating an infection. 

Smoothing Tooth Roots

Dr. Lee will smooth your tooth roots. This process allows your gums to reattach to your teeth and helps prevent future infections. 

Comprehensive Approach

If necessary, we may combine deep cleaning with laser treatments. It all depends on the extent of the disease and your specific needs.

Ongoing Gum Care

We may recommend ongoing gum maintenance visits. These appointments can keep gum disease from recurring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing

What is scaling and root planing? 
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. It targets areas that a routine cleaning can't reach. Scaling clears buildup from the tooth surface, while root planing smooths the tooth root to help gum tissue reattach. This two-part treatment is the standard first step for treating gum disease before it progresses further.
How is scaling and root planing different from a regular cleaning? 
The difference between scaling and root planing and a regular cleaning lies in the technique. Regular cleaning focuses on the visible surfaces of your teeth and the area just below the gumline. Scaling and root planing reach much deeper along the tooth roots. Regular cleanings are meant to maintain healthy gums. Once gum disease sets in, deeper tartar and bacterial buildup call for a more thorough approach.
What happens after scaling and root planing?
After scaling and root planing, your gums need time to heal and reattach to the tooth surface. You may experience some sensitivity, minor bleeding, or swelling for a few days. Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up visit to check how your gums are healing. Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is essential to support the healing process.
Will I need laser therapy with my scaling and root planing?

You may not need laser therapy with your scaling and root planing. However, it's sometimes used alongside scaling and root planing to target bacteria and support healing. A laser can reach areas more difficult to treat with traditional instruments. Whether laser-assisted treatment is right for you depends on the severity of your gum disease and your dentist's exam.

How do I know if I need scaling and root planing?

Signs that you may need scaling and root planing include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth. A dental exam that measures the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums will confirm if you need deeper treatment. Catching gum disease early often means a simpler, less invasive treatment path.

Read Why Our Patients Love Us

5 out of 5 stars - 815 votes

5 Stars (815 Reviews)

Excellent care, incredible staff, superb dentist!

C. C. (Verified Patient)

Very much enjoyed the visit! Great service and expertise! Dr. Paul Lee and his team are truly amazing.

R. S. (Verified Patient)

Always appreciate the detailed exams and attention to detail when cleaning teeth! I come in every 3 months and the last visit I had a good checkup. Thank you for all you do for the community’s smiles!!

R. A. (Verified Patient)

As always, it was a treat to visit Dr. Lee and his wonderful staff. One cannot ask for a better dental care than the one provided by this highly competent and friendly team.

H. S. (Verified Patient)

Great dentist and staff - easy to make appointment; easy to park and dentist and staff are awesome. I do not mind going to the dentist for checkups. You leave knowing you are in good hands and Dr. Lee and staff really care about your dental health.

L. F. (Verified Patient)

Dr. Lee and his assistants and dental hygienists are always very helpful and friendly. That makes the visit more plesent. Dr. Lee and his team also very thorough for all the details. I am very pleased with their work.

L. C. (Verified Patient)

Dr Lee is absolutely painless and his assistant was excellent today

M. G. (Verified Patient)

We have been with Paul for most of those years and he has kept our teeth in great shape. The crew he has our caring and do a great job.

L. K. (Verified Patient)

Have been a long time patient of Dr Paul Lee and I always have a good experience. This most recent visit was for a routine cleaning and I completely trust Kelly and her capable hands. From the moment you walk in and greeted by reception to checking out you will receive exemplary service.

C. C. (Verified Patient)

The hygienist was very kind, professional, detailed, meticulous, friendly, courteous and knowledgeable. I have treated patients for more than 37 years so I have some basis in my evaluation.

S. C. (Verified Patient)