General Dentistry
Non-surgical deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line, smooth root surfaces, and restore healthy gum attachment.
The Treatment
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that treats gum disease at its source. When plaque and tartar accumulate below the gum line, regular brushing and standard cleanings cannot reach them. Scaling removes these deposits from the tooth surfaces and root areas. Root planing smooths the root surfaces, which helps gum tissue reattach and reduces periodontal pocket depth.
The most important cleaning is the one you cannot do at home. Scaling and root planing reaches the bacteria that brushing and flossing miss.
Why It Is Needed
When gum pockets measure deeper than three millimeters, bacteria begins to colonize areas that standard cleaning instruments cannot reach. Left untreated, this leads to progressive bone loss, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss. Scaling and root planing arrests this process.
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The Process
Every step is intentional. Nothing is rushed, nothing is improvised, and nothing moves forward without your understanding.
Dr. Forbes measures pocket depths at six points around every tooth and evaluates gum tissue health. This data determines which areas require deep cleaning.
The treatment area is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort. Sedation is available for patients who prefer additional relaxation.
Using ultrasonic and hand instruments, plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins are carefully removed from the tooth surfaces and root areas below the gum line.
Root surfaces are smoothed to remove remaining bacterial deposits and rough areas where bacteria tend to accumulate. Smooth roots promote gum reattachment.
In some cases, an antimicrobial agent is placed in the treated pockets to help control bacteria and support healing during the recovery period.
A follow-up visit four to six weeks after treatment allows Dr. Forbes to re-measure pocket depths, assess tissue healing, and determine if further treatment is needed.
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Have questions or ready to take the next step? Fill out the form below and our team will be in touch within one business day.
Why It Matters
Scaling and root planing is the most effective non-surgical treatment for gum disease, avoiding the cost and recovery time of surgical procedures.
By removing the bacteria causing infection, this procedure stops the progressive destruction of the bone that supports your teeth.
Smooth, clean root surfaces allow gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth, reducing pocket depths and improving gum health.
Most patients notice a significant reduction in gum bleeding, swelling, and tenderness within weeks of treatment.
Treating moderate gum disease with scaling and root planing is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth loss.
For patients who need additional periodontal care, scaling and root planing provides a clean, stable foundation for surgical or restorative procedures.
Your Dentist
Dr. Forbes brings advanced training in cosmetic and general dentistry to every patient interaction. From routine cleanings to complex restorations, every case receives his personal attention and clinical expertise. One doctor. One standard.
Meet Dr. Forbes
Address
6946 Forest Ave, Suite 205
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone
804.320.8894Hours
Monday – Thursday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
