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.

Smiling woman with tattoos sitting in dental chair during consultation in modern clinic with screen in background

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 - 809 votes

5 Stars (809 Reviews)

I’ve been coming to see Dr. Lee for the past 10 months since moving to Houston and he is one of the most knowledgeable dentist I have ever had. He is kind to his patients And truly wants the best for them. I came home from having a procedure done and didn’t have any residual pain. I can... I’ve been coming to see Dr. Lee for the past 10 months since moving to Houston and he is one of the most knowledgeable dentist I have ever had. He is kind to his patients And truly wants the best for them. I came home from having a procedure done and didn’t have any residual pain. I can truly recommend Dr. Lee without any hesitation.

N. S. (Verified Patient)

One of the best visits I ever had to a dentist

J. B. (Verified Patient)

I have been coming to Dr. Lee's office since moving to Houston over 20 years ago, before Dr. Lee was there. He has since taken over the practice and I have seen many improvements! The care is excellent - he is professional, efficient and friendly. More importantly, his staff is just phenomenal... I have been coming to Dr. Lee's office since moving to Houston over 20 years ago, before Dr. Lee was there. He has since taken over the practice and I have seen many improvements! The care is excellent - he is professional, efficient and friendly. More importantly, his staff is just phenomenal - from Kelly at the front desk (she always remembers me!), to my hygienist, Elliana (very competent, friendly, and caring) to Jasmin who gets me checked out with a smile! Highly recommend this practice if you are looking for the best dentist in Houston!

J. B. (Verified Patient)

The staff is always wonderful and accommodating, the facilities are great, and they always use the latest tech available. Highly recommend anyone coming here for their dental needs.

K. M. (Verified Patient)

Excellent staff and expert dentist! Love this team! My teeth look and feel fantastic😁

L. H. (Verified Patient)

I don’t like going to the dentist but Eliana is an amazing hygienist and so gentle! Kelly and Jasmine are always there to make you smile as you leave. Dr.Lee has a wonderful office.

S. S. (Verified Patient)

Amazing dentist and Team! I had not been to the dentist in years and was terrified. Jasmine made it easy to make an appointment. Kelly has walked me through my treatment plan and even called me on her day off to answer a question I had. Grateful to have found Dr. Lee and his Team.

P. P. (Verified Patient)

09/25/26 Had a dental clean & screening recently. Kelly was my RDH and was excellent. She explained everything in detail. Procedure was very good and professional. I strongly recommend Dr Lee for your dental needs.

G. W. (Verified Patient)

Dr.Lee and his staff always make me feel very comfortable and welcomed. I love Sam the hygienist. She’s great, very personable and friendly.

D. M. (Verified Patient)

Since my initial visit to Dr. Lee’s dental practice, I have experienced real growth in my personal confidence and in my appreciation for Dr. Lee’s skill and that of his staff. Dr. Lee’s preventive care club has been an excellent alternative to traditional dental insurance for me. I feel... Since my initial visit to Dr. Lee’s dental practice, I have experienced real growth in my personal confidence and in my appreciation for Dr. Lee’s skill and that of his staff. Dr. Lee’s preventive care club has been an excellent alternative to traditional dental insurance for me. I feel confident that his proactive approach to dental care will help prevent any major issues in the future. My journey with Dr. Lee culminated recently in a complete smile makeover. I could not be happier with the results. The care that went into every step of the process has left me with a smile that I am very proud to show.

J. R. (Verified Patient)