Scaling and root planing
A typical case, in 6 steps over 2 visits. Typically sore for a couple of days; any sensitivity typically fades in 1 to 2 months. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Scaling and root planing · Visit 1
Numbing
A local anesthetic numbs the gums.
Source: clevelandclinic.org
Steps in a typical case
Numbing
A local anesthetic numbs the gums.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Scaling
Plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth, both above and below the gums, with hand scalers or an ultrasonic tool.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Root planing
The tooth roots below the gums are smoothed (planed).
Visit 1 · Source 1
Antibiotics, if used
Antibiotics may be placed around the tooth roots, or antibiotic pills may be prescribed for after the visit.
Visit 1 · Source 1
One visit or two
The whole deep cleaning takes one to two hours. It may be done in one visit, or half the teeth at one visit and the other half at a second.
Visit 2 · Source 1
After the cleaning
There are no cuts or stitches, and most people return to their normal routine the same day. Regular cleanings and good daily care help keep the gums healthy.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically 1 or 2 visits, 1 to 2 hours in total. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically sore for a couple of days; any sensitivity typically fades in 1 to 2 months. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Typically followed by gum maintenance visits every 3 to 12 months. Source 2 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: daily brushing and flossing plus regular professional cleanings. Source 1 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 2 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D4341, D4342).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Tooth scaling and root planing. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23983-tooth-scaling-and-root-planing. Accessed November 6, 2026.
- Treatment of stage I-III periodontitis: the EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline (J Clin Periodontol 2020). European Federation of Periodontology (peer-reviewed, PMC). pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7891343. Accessed November 10, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D4341, D4342.