Scaling & Root Planing in Lisle, IL
When gum disease takes hold, scaling and root planing is the most effective non-surgical answer, which is why it's commonly called a "deep cleaning." At Brammeier Family Dental, Drs. Brammeier and Ericson use the procedure to clear tartar, bacteria, and toxins from below the gum line so your gums can heal and reattach to your teeth. As the first line of defense against periodontal disease, it often makes surgery unnecessary.
What it is
A non-surgical deep cleaning that lifts calculus (tartar), plaque, and bacterial toxins from above and below the gum line, then smooths the tooth roots so gums can reattach.
Who it's for
Anyone diagnosed with gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) whose inflamed gums, deep pockets, or tartar buildup are beyond what a regular cleaning can reach.
How we help
A careful reading of your pocket depths, gentle yet thorough treatment under local anesthesia, and follow-up care that tracks healing and keeps the disease from progressing.
Stopping gum disease starts with a deep cleaning. Schedule your evaluation today.
How the Procedure Works
- Numbing: Local anesthetic keeps you comfortable from start to finish
- Scaling: Specialized instruments lift calculus (tartar) and plaque from above and below the gum line
- Root planing: The tooth root surfaces are smoothed so bacteria have no rough spots to cling to
- Irrigation: An antimicrobial rinse may be flushed below the gums to lower the bacterial count
- Antibiotic therapy: Drs. Brammeier and Ericson may set antibiotic medication into deep pockets to speed healing
- Depending on severity, the procedure wraps up in one or two appointments
Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing
- Systemic health: The oral bacteria from gum disease can slip into the bloodstream, and research links periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions
- Reduced inflammation: Clearing bacteria from deep pockets lets gums heal and tighten back around the teeth
- Stop bleeding gums: Healthy gums don't bleed, and treatment goes after the root cause of that bleeding
- Better breath: Persistent bad breath (halitosis) usually traces to bacteria in deep pockets, which treatment clears out
- Cosmetic improvement: Scaling lifts surface stains along the way, leaving teeth visibly cleaner and brighter
- Prevent tooth loss: Early gum disease treatment heads off the bone loss that loosens teeth
After Your Deep Cleaning
- Drs. Brammeier and Ericson ask you back 4–6 weeks after treatment for a follow-up evaluation
- Gum pocket depths get re-measured to gauge how well you're healing
- Should the pockets fall short of expected improvement, we'll talk through additional treatment options
- Most patients move on to periodontal maintenance appointments every 3–4 months
- Solid home care between visits is essential, so brush twice daily and floss every night
- Skip regular maintenance and gum disease comes back
Gum disease won't resolve by itself. A deep cleaning halts it before it does permanent damage.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Evaluation: Drs. Brammeier and Ericson measure pocket depths around each tooth to map how far the disease has spread
- Treatment plan: We walk you through the findings and the treatment we recommend
- Procedure: We numb the area and carry out the deep cleaning, with most patients reporting minimal discomfort
- Post-care: You leave with clear home care instructions for the healing period
- Follow-up: We schedule a re-evaluation for 4–6 weeks later
Helpful Tips
- Expect some gum tenderness and sensitivity for a few days afterward
- Steer clear of hot or spicy foods for the first 24 hours
- Soothe the gums with a gentle warm salt water rinse
- Keep brushing and flossing, gently but thoroughly
- Keep all follow-up and maintenance appointments so gum disease stays under control
- Don't smoke, as tobacco markedly slows gum healing
Frequently Asked Questions
A healthy smile is built on healthy gums. Schedule your deep cleaning evaluation today.