Periodontal services in San Jose, California, focus on protecting the health of your gums and the supporting structures of your teeth. While many patients concentrate on preventing cavities, gum health is equally important. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that begins with plaque buildup along the gumline. Without timely treatment, this condition can progress and threaten your oral and overall health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease typically begins as gingivitis, the earliest stage. At this point, your gums may appear red, swollen or tender, and you may notice bleeding when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is often reversible with professional cleanings and improved home care. However, when left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis.
Periodontitis occurs when bacteria move below the gumline, causing inflammation and infection around the tooth roots. Over time, this infection can damage the bone and connective tissues that support your teeth. Gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth and even tooth loss may occur in more advanced cases.
Our periodontal services in San Jose, CA, are designed to stop the progression of gum disease and restore stability to your smile. One of the most effective nonsurgical treatments that our orthodontist may recommend for managing periodontitis is scaling and root planing.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is often described as a deep cleaning. Unlike a routine dental cleaning that focuses on the visible surfaces of your teeth, this treatment targets the areas below the gumline where harmful bacteria accumulate.
The procedure typically includes:
- Careful removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline
- Thorough cleaning of the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial toxins
- Smoothing of root surfaces to help gum tissues reattach
- Evaluation of gum pocket depths to monitor healing
By removing the source of infection and smoothing the root surfaces, scaling and root planing allows your gums to heal and reattach more securely to your teeth. This process helps reduce pocket depths and lowers the risk of further bone loss.
What to Expect During Treatment
Scaling and root planing may be completed in one or more visits, depending on the extent of your condition. For your comfort, local anesthetic can be used to numb the treated areas. Many patients report that the procedure is manageable and well tolerated.
After treatment, you may experience mild tenderness or sensitivity, which typically resolves within a few days. Our orthodontist and team will provide detailed instructions to support healing, including guidance on brushing, flossing and any recommended antimicrobial rinses. In some cases, antibiotic therapy may be used alongside scaling and root planing to enhance results.
Long-Term Periodontal Maintenance
Scaling and root planing in San Jose, CA, is highly effective for many patients, especially when gum disease is addressed early. However, periodontal health requires ongoing attention. After active treatment, you may be placed on a periodontal maintenance schedule, which often involves visits every three to four months.
During these appointments, we monitor gum health, remove bacterial buildup and evaluate pocket depths. Consistent care helps prevent reinfection and supports long-term stability.
Gum health plays a vital role in your overall wellness. Research continues to link periodontal disease with systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. By seeking timely periodontal treatment and maintaining regular visits, you take an important step toward protecting both your smile and your health.
Schedule Today
If you have noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or changes in your gumline, we encourage you to contact Almaden Valley Surfside Kids Dental at 408-770-9383 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Derick Phan and associates. Our team is committed to providing professional, compassionate periodontal care in San Jose, CA, tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling & Root Planing
How do I know if I need scaling and root planing?
You may need scaling and root planing if you have gum pockets, bleeding gums or bone loss visible on X-rays. A periodontal exam will determine the severity of your condition.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
Most patients tolerate treatment well. Local anesthetic is typically used to keep you comfortable, and any mild soreness afterward usually resolves within a few days.
How long does it take to see results?
Initial healing often begins within a few weeks. Gum inflammation decreases as bacteria are removed, and follow-up visits allow us to measure reduced pocket depths.
Will I need additional periodontal treatment?
Many patients maintain healthy gums after scaling and root planing with regular maintenance visits. However, advanced cases may require additional therapies to stabilize periodontal health.