Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling

The initial stage of treatment is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) deposits beneath the gum line.

An animated illustration showing the process of scaling

The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.

An animated illustration showing the process of root planing

Root Planing

Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, antibiotic fibers may be placed in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.

Are you ready to smile with confidence again?

Our mission is to help patients live healthier lives. We provide a caring, nurturing environment where your comfort and health is of primary importance.
Call today to schedule!

Call us: 252-446-0400

Rocky Mount Periodontics and Implant Center

5 out of 5 stars based on 360 Scaling and Root Planing reviews

Patient Review by Ted L

great staff here it been a pleasant every time i come everyone treat me nicely And Shannon and Dr. KIM are great

- Ted L

5 out of 5 stars by Ted L on

Patient Review by Contina W

Awesome periodontic office. The staff is awesome, very attentive.

- Contina W

5 out of 5 stars by Contina W on

Patient Review by Yvonne L

I am very satisfied with my visits with Dr. Kim and Carolyn. They make me comfort and at ease. I give them a thumbs up!!!

- Yvonne L

5 out of 5 stars by Yvonne L on

Patient Review by Wayne T

Everybody very good and keeps me advised up to date

- Wayne T

5 out of 5 stars by Wayne T on

Patient Review by Glover F

I am pleased with the excellent work here! I was able to by-pass periodontal surgery by having an excellent response to a deep cleaning. Thank you to Dr. Kim and staff for saving me more time and money and keeping things conservative!

- Glover F

5 out of 5 stars by Glover F on

Patient Review by Beatriz H

I am fine with the treatment from the staff and doctor. I am Hispanic and they are respectful with me and allow me to have my interpreter which gives me great comfort.

- Beatriz H

5 out of 5 stars by Beatriz H on

Patient Review by Candace B

This office is always a pleasure to come to. Everyone is friendly and professional.

- Candace B

5 out of 5 stars by Candace B on

Patient Review by jim r

have never had to wait more than a minute! very pleased with the care and staff

- jim r

5 out of 5 stars by jim r on

Patient Review by Fannie L

Have been coming here for about 10 years and each time has been great. Deborah does a great job cleaning and very patient. I have recommended my brother who have enjoyed the service as well. Look forward to future visits here with Dr. Kim and staff.

- Fannie L

5 out of 5 stars by Fannie L on

Patient Review by Ruby Y

Overall, very pleased with the results of the deep cleaning! My gums used to bleed all the time prior to my treatment and, now, the bleeding has stopped! My anxiety of coming to the dentist was comforted and more at peace by how well Dr. Kim and staff take care of me. Very family oriented team!!

- Ruby Y

5 out of 5 stars by Ruby Y on

Patient Review by Hope C

I have received excellent care from Dr. Kim and staff for the past seven years and highly recommend this office to anyone!!!

- Hope C

5 out of 5 stars by Hope C on

Patient Review by Diana L

Friendly Doctors staff and will answer your questions to the best of their knowledge. They always do an oral cancer screening and found a spot on my tonsil which thankfully the ENT found to be benign.

- Diana L

5 out of 5 stars by Diana L on

Patient Review by pat m

very pleased with service here very nice people, would recommend to anyone

- pat m

5 out of 5 stars by pat m on

Patient Review by Della W

Very pleased with service provided by staff.

- Della W

5 out of 5 stars by Della W on

Patient Review by Meg C

I have always received excellent care from Dr. Strickland/Dr. Arrington whether it is a routine checkup, gum grafting or implant. My hygienist, Carolyn has always been excellent too. They care about me the whole person, listen and answer all questions and I feel confident in things they suggest for me to improve my teeth and gum health.

- Meg C

5 out of 5 stars by Meg C on

Patient Review by Peaches B

Over many years of coming to this office the care has been very acceptable keeping my teeth and gums in shape. The end product I have gotten here has been a five star!!!

- Peaches B

5 out of 5 stars by Peaches B on

Patient Review by Ethleen J

I did not mind coming for my appointments and alot of people i know get upset coming for dental care. Very happy with my care here

- Ethleen J

5 out of 5 stars by Ethleen J on

Patient Review by ann w

I have been coming here for along time and I still have my teeth. Very happy here.

- ann w

5 out of 5 stars by ann w on

Patient Review by Renee S

Carolyn and Dr Kim were extremely sympathetic when I explained my fears of dental work. Carolyn was very easy on me and made me feel very comfortable.

- Renee S

5 out of 5 stars by Renee S on

Patient Review by Joel B

Michelle was awesome. I went in with an abscess tooth and after Dr. Kim examined me; Michelle cleaned the tooth and got rid of the infection, and put antibiotic under the tooth. There was no more pain and Michelle never hurt me. I called back the next morning to let her know how much I appreciate everything she did. Love her!!!

- Joel B

5 out of 5 stars by Joel B on