Effective Gum Disease Treatment at Dental Care of Sterling

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When gum disease develops, early treatment is essential to prevent tooth loss, bone damage, and long-term oral health complications. At Dental Care of Sterling , we provide gentle and effective scaling and root planing treatments for patients in Sterling, IL, and the surrounding Sauk Valley communities. This deep-cleaning procedure is considered the gold standard for treating early to moderate periodontal disease, helping restore gum health and protect your smile.

Scaling and root planing removes harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar below the gumline while promoting healthy reattachment of the gums to your teeth. With advanced technology and a comfort-focused approach, our team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience for every patient.

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scaling and root planing treatment for managing and stopping gum disease

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal therapy designed to treat gum disease (periodontitis). While regular cleanings focus on removing plaque from the tooth surfaces, scaling and root planing targets deeper areas where bacteria hide—beneath the gums and around tooth roots.

This two-step procedure includes:

  • 1. Scaling
    Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gumline using special ultrasonic and hand instruments.

  • 2. Root Planing
    Smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach more securely and reduce the risk of future buildup.

This treatment stops gum disease from progressing and supports long-term oral health.

Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing

Many patients experience gum disease without realizing it—early symptoms may be mild or painless. However, prompt treatment is crucial to preventing more serious complications.

You may need scaling and root planing if you have:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding during brushing or flossing

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Gum recession or teeth that appear longer

  • Loose or shifting teeth

  • Pockets forming between teeth and gums

  • Heavy tartar buildup

  • Discomfort when chewing

During your visit, we evaluate your gum health, measure periodontal pockets, and determine whether deep cleaning is the best solution for you.

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Common symptoms indicating the need for scaling and root planing to treat gum disease
Common causes of gum disease and factors that contribute to plaque and tartar buildup

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth. If not removed through daily brushing and regular cleanings, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to infection.

Common causes and contributing factors include:

  • Poor oral hygiene

  • Smoking or tobacco use

  • Genetics

  • Hormonal changes

  • Diabetes

  • Stress

  • Certain medications

  • Misaligned teeth that trap bacteria

Scaling and root planing helps eliminate the bacteria responsible for inflammation, allowing your gums to heal and regain strength.

Our Scaling and Root Planing Process

At Dental Care of Sterling, we believe comfort and communication are essential. From start to finish, we make sure you understand the process and feel relaxed throughout treatment.

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

We begin with digital X-rays and a periodontal exam to assess bone levels, measure gum pockets, and identify areas of concern.

2. Local Anesthesia for Comfort

To ensure maximum comfort, we numb the treated area so you can relax while we work.

3. Deep Cleaning (Scaling)

We remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and deep beneath the gumline using ultrasonic tools for gentle, effective cleaning.

4. Smoothing the Roots (Root Planing)

We carefully smooth rough areas of the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from collecting and to help gums reattach.

5. Antibacterial Treatment (If Needed)

In some cases, we apply antimicrobial medication to further reduce infection and support healing.

6. Follow-Up Care

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, we may schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure your gums respond properly.

Our goal is to restore the health of your gums while making your experience as comfortable as possible.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

This essential periodontal treatment offers many advantages for your oral and overall health:

Stops Gum Disease

Prevents infection from spreading and progressing to more advanced stages.

Reduces Gum Inflammation

Helps restore healthy, firm, pink gums.

Prevents Tooth Loss

Strengthens the attachment between teeth and gums.

Protects Bone Health

Prevents bacteria from damaging the jawbone.

Improves Breath Freshness

Eliminates bacteria that cause chronic bad breath.

Boosts Overall Health

Untreated gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, and inflammation. Treatment helps lower these risks.

Non-Surgical Solution

Scaling and root planing is minimally invasive and often prevents the need for future surgical procedures.

Aftercare and Maintaining Healthy Gums

Proper home care is essential to prevent gum disease from returning. After scaling and root planing, we recommend:

  • Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

  • Flossing every day

  • Using an antibacterial mouth rinse if recommended

  • Avoiding tobacco products

  • Maintaining regular dental checkups

  • Scheduling periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months

Your gums will gradually heal and tighten around your teeth, reducing pocket depth and improving your oral health.

Tips for maintaining healthy gums after scaling and root planing treatment
Benefits of choosing Dental Care of Sterling for periodontal treatment

Why Choose Dental Care of Sterling for Periodontal Treatment?

Patients trust us for gum therapy because we offer:

  • Advanced periodontal diagnostic tools

  • Experienced, compassionate clinical team

  • Gentle techniques focused on comfort

  • Personalized treatment plans

  • A commitment to long-term oral health

  • Modern technology for precise, effective care

Our mission is to restore and protect your smile with the highest level of professionalism and comfort.

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Schedule Your Gum Disease Evaluation in Sterling, IL

If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, bad breath, or discomfort, don’t wait—early treatment is the key to preventing permanent damage. Dental Care of Sterling offers gentle and effective scaling and root planing to restore your gums and protect your smile.

Contact our Sterling, IL office today to schedule your periodontal evaluation and take the first step toward healthier gums.

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