Scaling and Root Planing

Gingivitis is a generative disease that left untreated, will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. Just the word gingivitis can strike panic in a patient’s mind. The reality is that the treatment is simple and performed right in your dentist’s office.

Plaque and tarter that sits on the teeth provides an environment, which allows bacteria to thrive and multiply. The bacteria cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed. The condition becomes more noticeable when you brush your teeth or sometimes when you eat. These are signs of the early stage of gingivitis. Gingivitis is easily treated by having the hygienist scale and polish the teeth. If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will progress and the roots will need a planing. The difference between scaling and root planing is simple. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface. Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth structure.

As a non-surgical procedure, scaling and planing is performed without any anesthesia, in the dentist’s office. While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing is usually broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment. This allows for adequate healing time, and reduces the time for each appointment.

Our Location

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Location

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Elk Dental Center provides a great experience in dental care. Extremely caring staff and doctors. Most refreshingly, they don’t over-diagnose treatments like other dentists - several times they’ve told me “You have a very early stage cavity that could need a filling in the future, but for now let’s watch it until your next exam.” Well worth the drive to get there from Plymouth!

    - David K.

    Always friendly! They make sure you are comfortable too - if you’re afraid of going to the dentist, go to Elk Dental Center, they’re a great team. Receptionists are always helpful and courteous. The dentist does a thorough job and which ever one you see, all are very knowledgeable and have time for any questions. I’ve been a patient there for quite a few years - it can’t be too bad...I go every 6 months!

    - Amanda O.

    I've been going to Elk Dental Center for 35 years. I had to go somewhere else for awhile because of insurance and couldn't wait to get back. All staff is professional, friendly, and truly caring. The dental work itself is high quality. They never "over prescribe" any work, and the cash discount is greatly appreciated. They also made extra effort to get me in on short notice when I've had problems.

    - JoAnn G.

    Always so polite and pleasant to there customers. Very satisfied, I have been going to dentist off and on for thirty-five years. Moved out of state, then when moved back went back to Elk Dental Center. We drive two hours both way to get dental services at Elk Dental Center.

    - Rita S.