Periodontal scaling and root planing is a cornerstone treatment for preventing and managing gum disease. It’s a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, helping restore gum health and prevent further damage.
At Soho Smile, located in the heart of SoHo, NYC, this treatment is performed with precision and care by Dr. John Koutsoyiannis and his dedicated team.
Combining advanced techniques with a biologic approach, Soho Smile focuses on improving both oral health and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum tenderness, scaling and root planing may be the key to restoring a healthier, stronger smile.
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a bacterial infection that attacks the tissues surrounding your teeth. It starts small — with plaque buildup — but can escalate into inflammation, bone loss, and even tooth loss if untreated.
Like rust slowly eating away at metal, periodontal disease silently damages your gums and jawbone.
Without timely intervention, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis — a journey you definitely want to avoid.
Bacteria feed on leftover food particles, forming sticky plaque. If not brushed away, plaque hardens into tartar, creating a fortress for bacteria below the gumline. This triggers inflammation, and before you know it… gum disease begins its silent takeover.
Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) is a specialized non-surgical dental procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. It’s often referred to as “deep cleaning” because it goes where regular brushing and standard cleanings can’t.
The goal of SRP is simple — to stop gum disease in its tracks. By removing irritants and smoothing the roots, your gums can reattach firmly to your teeth. It’s like resetting your mouth’s natural balance.
While a regular cleaning focuses on the surfaces of your teeth above the gumline, scaling and root planing digs deeper — targeting the bacteria lurking beneath. It’s the difference between sweeping the floor and scrubbing the foundation.
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it’s more than just sensitivity — it’s often the first sign of gum disease.
Bacteria trapped under the gums release foul-smelling toxins. No amount of mouthwash can mask it if deep cleaning isn’t done.
As bacteria spread, gums pull away from teeth, exposing sensitive roots. Hot coffee or cold drinks suddenly become your worst enemies.
When gums detach and bone loss begins, teeth may start to wobble or move. That’s a red flag that deep cleaning is urgently needed.
At Soho Smile, every SRP procedure is done with precision and care.
Dr. Koutsoyiannis and his team begin with a comprehensive exam, using X-rays and gum measurements to assess pocket depths and infection levels.
To ensure your comfort, a local anesthetic is applied — you’ll stay relaxed and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Using ultrasonic or manual tools, the dentist removes hardened deposits from tooth roots and beneath the gums.
Once scaling is complete, root surfaces are polished and smoothed, helping gums reattach and heal naturally.
Ultrasonic tools use high-frequency vibrations and water to dislodge tartar quickly and comfortably. Manual scalers, on the other hand, allow detailed precision — both are often used together for best results.
Some modern practices use dental lasers to kill bacteria and disinfect deep pockets — a cutting-edge solution that minimizes discomfort.
At Soho Smile, advanced biologic and ultrasonic tools ensure minimal pain and maximum efficiency — transforming what used to be an uncomfortable treatment into a nearly relaxing one.
Depending on the severity, treatment may take one or two visits. Most patients describe the experience as “mildly sensitive but manageable.”
For early-stage periodontal disease, one appointment may suffice. Severe cases might require multiple sessions spaced a week apart.
At Soho Smile, comfort is key. Local anesthesia, numbing gels, and even sedation options are available for patients with dental anxiety.
Once the irritants are removed, your gums can finally rest and recover — inflammation fades, and bleeding stops.
Scaling and root planing helps protect the bone that anchors your teeth, preventing further deterioration.
Say goodbye to chronic bad breath. Freshness returns as bacteria and toxins are eliminated.
Studies show strong links between gum disease and systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Treating your gums can improve more than your smile — it can improve your life.
It’s normal for gums to feel tender for a few days post-procedure.
Some slight bleeding can occur but typically subsides within 24 hours.
Cold or hot sensations might trigger brief sensitivity — using a desensitizing toothpaste usually helps.
Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Avoid vigorous flossing for a few days.
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid spicy or crunchy snacks.
Your dentist may recommend a follow-up cleaning within 4–6 weeks to assess healing and plaque control.
After initial treatment, periodontal maintenance ensures your gums stay healthy long-term.
Frequent checkups prevent bacterial buildup and keep gum pockets under control.
Your dentist will measure pockets and compare results — progress is carefully tracked at every visit.
For mild to moderate cases, scaling and root planing often restore gum health completely — no surgery needed.
Severe cases with deep pockets or bone loss may require flap surgery or grafting for complete healing.
Sometimes, scaling and root planing are performed before surgery — preparing gums for optimal recovery.
Welcome to SohoSmile®, where dental excellence meets holistic wellness for us. Under the leadership of Dr. John Koutsoyiannis, and with the expertise of Dr. James Linkous and Dr. Ari Koutsoubis, you'll experience dentistry that goes far beyond routine care.
Located at 206 Spring Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10012, our practice offers advanced periodontal therapy like Scaling and Root Planing, along with teeth whitening, veneers, and cutting-edge biologic dental care.
We prioritize personalized treatments tailored to your health goals, using state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate team focused on your comfort. You can visit us Monday through Thursday, with late hours on Tuesday and Wednesday, and open until 5 PM on Friday. Choose SohoSmile® for our holistic approach to dental health.
Schedule your appointment now and experience the transformative power of SohoSmile®.
Healthy gums mean a healthy life. Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing isn’t just about cleaning your teeth — it’s about reclaiming your oral health, confidence, and comfort. With the professional care of Soho Smile, you’re not just getting a treatment; you’re investing in a smile that lasts a lifetime.
Your gums deserve the best. And at Soho Smile, that’s exactly what they’ll get.
Not at all! With local anesthesia, most patients feel only mild pressure — not pain.
Typically, full recovery occurs within a few days, though gums continue healing for weeks.
Most patients require it once unless periodontal disease recurs. Regular maintenance every 3–4 months is essential afterward.
Yes, if oral hygiene lapses. Consistent brushing, flossing, and dental visits help prevent recurrence.
206 Spring Street 5th Fl
New York, NY 10012
Monday 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am - 7:00pm
Thursday 9:00am - 6:00pm
Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sat & Sun Closed