Do bleeding gums mean I have gum disease?

Yes. Bleeding gums are a common sign of gingivitis and require evaluation.

Is treatment painful?

Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure.

Does insurance cover deep cleaning?

Most NYC dental insurance plans cover scaling and root planing when diagnosed by a periodontist.

Stop Gum Disease With Scaling and Root Planing Treatment

Nov 19

Written By Scott Froum

Woman in dental chair getting scaling and root planing treatment to prevent gum disease

What This Blog Post Will Cover

In this article, you’ll learn:

- What scaling and root planing is and how it treats periodontal gum disease

- Benefits of deep cleaning for the teeth and gum line

- When deep cleaning is enough and when surgical procedures may be needed

- How SRP helps reduce periodontal pocket depth

- Why early treatment helps protect dental care, long-term health, and supporting your teeth

Avoid Surgery with Deep Cleaning

Gum disease is one of the most common chronic infections in the world. In the early stages, gum diseases symptoms like gum bleeding, gum sensitivity, and gum recession often go unnoticed or ignored. When left untreated, gum disease can progress, damaging the bone and soft tissue that support your teeth.

The good news is that scaling and root planing (SRP), also known as deep cleaning, or non-surgical periodontal therapy can stop a form of gum disease before it advances into more serious problems.

Our NYC periodontal office focuses on saving teeth, restoring gum health, and preventing surgery whenever possible through early intervention.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a precise dental care procedure designed to treat receding gums, inflammation, and the early stages of bone loss. It is a nonsurgical therapy that helps:

Remove plaque and tartar below the gumline
Reduce harmful bacteria that causes gum inflammation and damages bone and gums
Smooth root surfaces so bacteria cannot easily reattach
Reduce periodontal pocket, also known as gum pocket, depth so gums can heal and reattach to teeth

SRP is the first step to treat gum disease before it progresses to advanced periodontitis, where surgery is often required.

Benefits of Deep Cleaning for Gum Disease

Scaling and root planing helps:

Stop gingivitis and early gum disease
Reduce bleeding gums and inflammation
Improve breath and hygiene
Helps prevent or lower the need for surgical procedures later
Support long-term systemic health by reducing inflammation that can impact cardiovascular disease and diabetes

When Is Non-Surgical Treatment Enough?

SRP works best for:

Mild to moderate gum disease
Gum bleeding
Localized bone loss
Mild gum recession and sensitivity

Deep cleaning is often the most effective solution before bone is significantly damaged.

When Surgery May Be Needed

Advanced gum disease with deep pockets, bone destruction, or mobility may require procedures such as bone grafting or flap surgery.

However, SRP is always the first step before any surgical procedures are considered.

Periodontal Maintenance After SRP

After treatment, patients need professional cleaning every 3 to 4 months to prevent gum disease from returning.

Daily brushing and flossing and staying alert to warning signs help maintain results and protect your long-term oral health.

Key Takeaways

Deep cleaning is one of the most effective ways to stop gum disease early.
SRP helps reduce inflammation, pocket depth, and the need for surgery.
Treating gum disease when it first appears helps protect supporting your teeth and bone.
Consistent home care and regular maintenance are essential to long-term stability.

Take Control of Your Gum Health Today

If you experience bleeding gums, gingivitis, or gum disease symptoms in New York City, contact our periodontal office today.

Save your teeth. Protect your health.

Frequently Asked Questions About SRP

Yes, bleeding gums are a common sign of gingivitis and require evaluation.
Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure.
Most NYC dental insurance plans cover SRP when diagnosed by a periodontist.

About Dr. Scott Froum

Dr. Scott H. Froum is a board-certified periodontist in Midtown Manhattan. He helps patients with gum disease treatment, scaling and root planing, periodontal regeneration, dental implants, and surgical procedures for implant complications.

Dr. Froum is a professor at SUNY Stony Brook Dental School and the chief editor of Perio-Implant Advisory. He has many years of experience saving natural teeth, improving dental health, and supporting patients with advanced treatment planning.

If you are looking for a periodontist in New York City to help you explore the best options for your teeth and gums, Dr. Froum offers expert, patient-centered care. Contact the office today.

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