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1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062

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Does Scaling and Root Planing Hurt?

  • May 15, 2025
  • 113 Views

Scaling and root planing is a standard treatment for gum disease. However, when a dentist recommends this procedure, many people wonder if it will hurt.

While everyone’s sensitivity is different, the procedure itself is typically pain-free with numbing gel or local anesthesia. You might have some slight soreness afterward, but this is only temporary. Here’s what you should know.

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    What is Scaling and Root Planing?

    Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure designed to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. Unlike a regular cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of your teeth, this treatment reaches deeper to address gum disease (periodontitis).

    • Scaling removes buildup from the tooth surface and pockets around the gums
    • Root planing smooths the tooth roots, helping gums reattach to the teeth and preventing further infection

    Questions About Does Scaling and Root Planing Hurt? ?

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    Will Scaling and Root Planing Itself Be Painful?

    Most dental offices use a local anesthetic to effectively numb the targeted area before beginning any procedure.

    This means that during your treatment, you are unlikely to experience pain. While some patients may feel mild sensations such as pressure or vibrations from the dental instruments, these feelings are generally not associated with discomfort or pain.

    If you find yourself particularly sensitive or feeling anxious about dental work, it’s important to communicate this with your dentist. They are more than willing to modify their techniques or provide additional comfort measures to make sure you feel at ease throughout your visit.

    They were are an impressive dental office that also provides emergency dental services. Stacey and Dr Nahhas are part of a A-1 team you can trust! Thank you so much. I appreciate you and recommend you highly!
    They performed an emergency extraction for me, rescuing me from extreme pain from an exposed nerve. They are professional, compassionate, comprehensive and good! Couldn’t ask for better service from an emergency dental visit!

    Norman Steel

    Great people in the office! Left my teeth feeling great! The dentist was very attentive to my needs and questions and answered without dismissing me. Very refreshing to have a doctor listen to your questions and give straightforward and helpful answers. I found my new regular dentist at this location.

    Cullen Maglothin

    My experience was extremely pleasant. From the front office staff & assistants to dentist himself. Everyone was very professional & understanding. I Came in for an emergency during my lunch break, I was quoted & seen the same day. Very good dentist. I will definitely be coming back with the rest of my family

    Elida Aponte

    Let me just say that I’m not one who goes to the dentist often. But when I do this is the place that I go to. The staff are very welcoming for new and existing patients. When I went I was a little nervous at first but when I got there the staff talked with me asked how my day was, told me what they planned to do in terms I understood, that sort of thing. And when I was in the chair I was in and out in no time at all and didn’t feel any pain.

    Waleed

    What About After Scaling and Root Planing Procedure?

    Once the anesthetic wears off, you may notice some tenderness in your gums. This is normal and usually lasts a few days. Your teeth might also feel slightly sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.

    Here’s what you can do to ease discomfort:

    • Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
    • Eat only softer foods for a day or two
    • Avoid extremely hot or cold drinks
    • Rinse with warm salt water to soothe your gums

    Why Scaling and Root Planing Is Worth It?

    While the idea of a deep cleaning might sound uncomfortable, the benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even affect your overall health. Scaling and root planing help:

    • Stop gum disease from progressing
    • Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
    • Prevent further damage to your teeth and bones
    • Improve bad breath caused by bacterial buildup

    In Summary

    If your dentist recommends scaling and root planing, don’t let fear of pain stop you. The procedure itself is manageable with anesthesia, and any post-treatment soreness is usually mild and short-lived. The real focus should be on how this treatment protects your gums and teeth in the long run.

    At Lifeline Dental Emergency and Family Care, we provide gentle and effective scaling and root planing to help patients maintain healthy gums. If you have concerns about gum disease or this treatment, don’t hesitate to consult our dental professionals for guidance.

    You can reach out to us by calling (281) 409-3777.