Scaling & Root Planing

If Dr. Daniel Dafo or your hygienist has told you that you need scaling and root planing, here's what that means in simple terms: bacteria and hardened tartar have built up below your gumline where regular cleanings can't reach. That buildup is causing your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating deeper pockets that trap more bacteria. SRP cleans those pockets out and smooths the root surfaces so your gums have a chance to reattach and heal.

It's the same thing people call a "deep cleaning." The clinical name just tells you the two steps involved: scaling (removing the buildup) and root planing (smoothing the roots).

What the Numbers Mean

At every checkup, Dr. Dafo's team measures the depth of the space between your gums and teeth using a small probe. Healthy gums measure 1–3mm. When pockets reach 4mm or deeper, it means the attachment between gum and tooth is breaking down — and bacteria are colonizing space that your toothbrush and floss can't access.

Dr. Dafo shows you your numbers, explains which areas are concerning, and tells you clearly whether SRP is needed. No vague recommendations. No pressure. Just your measurements and what they mean.

The Procedure Step by Step

Visit one covers one side of the mouth. The area is numbed. Dr. Dafo and the hygienist use a combination of ultrasonic instruments, hand scalers, and the Waterlase laser to remove calculus from below the gumline, flush the pockets, and smooth the root surfaces. The laser adds bacterial reduction that instruments alone can't achieve.

Visit two — typically one to two weeks later — covers the other side using the same approach.

Each visit takes about an hour. Nitrous oxide is available.

After SRP: What Healing Looks Like

Your gums may be tender for a day or two. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal as the roots are briefly exposed during healing. Within two to four weeks, most patients notice gums that are pinker, tighter, and no longer bleeding.

Dr. Dafo re-evaluates your pocket depths four to six weeks after treatment. If pockets have improved to 3mm or below, you'll move to a periodontal maintenance schedule — typically every three to four months. If certain areas haven't responded, he'll discuss targeted next steps.