Scaling and Root Planing in Glendale, AZ

The objective of scaling and root planing is to remove etiologic agents which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus).

These non-surgical procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate/severe periodontal disease.

Reasons for scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone treatment. These procedures are performed as a preventative measure for a periodontitis sufferer.

Here are some reasons why these dental procedures may be necessary:

Disease prevention – The oral bacteria which cause periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria and halts periodontal disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body.
Tooth protection – When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more colonies of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by the body begins to destroy gingival and bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world.
Aesthetic effects – Scaling and root planing help remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the scaling and root planing procedure.
Better breath – One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis (bad breath). Food particles and bacteria can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which is alleviated with cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing.

What do scaling and root planing treatments involve?

Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after a thorough examination of the mouth. The dentist will take X-rays, conduct visual examinations and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning these procedures.

Depending on the current condition of the gums, the amount of calculus (tartar) present, the depth of the pockets and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthetic may be used.

Scaling – This procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool removes calculus and plaque from the surface of the crown and root surfaces. In many cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.

Root Planing – This procedure is a specific treatment which serves to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed in order to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces helps bacteria from easily colonizing in future.

Following these deep cleaning procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will soothe irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.

During the next appointment, the dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended.

If you have any concerns or questions about scaling and root planing, or periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.

Welcome to Family & Cosmetic Dental PLLC

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Adrian Pulkrabek and his team combine science and artistry to prioritize your comfort and oral health. From routine cleanings to complete smile redesigns, we offer state-of-the-art restorative and cosmetic dentistry in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Why Choose Us

20+ Years of Clinical Experience

Comprehensive Cosmetic Services

State-of-the-Art Technology

Anxiety-Free Atmosphere

Same-Day Emergency Care

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 102 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Charles B 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great Dentist!! Office staff, simply put, are just darn good people. Kathleen always greets you with a smile and a friendly welcome. Sarah is the Dental Assistant and Hygienist; she's wonderful, always making sure I feel comfortable and it shows by how she treats a patient (me). All 3 are very professional!! The office is very clean, and the front desk area is organized and well maintained by Kathleen. That being said, Dr. Pulkrabek is an excellent Dentist. Explains every procedure very well, detailed and also making sure I understand and he makes sure I feel comfortable during my visit. One of the great benefits when I'm in the Dental chair and Dr. Pulkrabek is working his magic on my teeth, It's always been practically painless Dentistry.  I'm always extremely pleased with the outcome of the Dr's work on my Ivorys!! My overall experience has been outstanding with each visit. I highly recommend making an appointment with Dr. Pulkrabek for your Dental needs and concerns.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Renee C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a patient of Dr. Pulkrabek and his team since probably 2005/2006. I have pretty severe dental anxiety and he is the only reason I’m able to show up for my six month cleanings. He is so gentle, thorough, knowledgeable, and fun. He is efficient. Contemplating a move out of the State and joked that we would probably keep him as our provider and just come back for cleanings. He is that good. Such an amazing dentist.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Barbara L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have always been pleased with the staff and the doctor. The office manager is professional, and her experience shows as she engages with clients. The doctors assistant is professional, and very pleasant to deal with. The doctor himself, is knowledgeable, professional and always treats me as if I’m his only patient and I have no complaints about my dental care from him.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jordynn B 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing Dentist! Staff was very friendly and I got an appointment very quickly! They gave me a great referral and helped with all my questions and concerns!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Megan T 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing dentist! Everyone in the office is amazing and professional. They made me feel at ease and this was the first time going to the dentist. They explain each procedure and how it will benefit your teeth and health.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Candice H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Pulkrabek and his staff are great. We have been coming here for years and would highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Adrian was super helpful and explain everything to me! Super easy visit. Extremely friendly staff that helped me with all the insurance and billing!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Julian M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Pulkrabek is a great dentist, and he does a very good job cleaning and examining teeth. He found a cavity growing underneath a prior filling after taking a closer look. The office staff and dental hygienists are all friendly and professional. I am looking forward to my next visit.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Natasha L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great office! Everyone is super helpful and does a great job

Charles B

Great Dentist!! Office staff, simply put, are just darn good people. Kathleen always greets you with a smile and a friendly welcome. Sarah is the Dental Assistant and Hygienist; she's wonderful, always making sure I feel comfortable and it shows by how she treats a patient (me). All 3 are very professional!! The office is very clean, and the front desk area is organized and well maintained by Kathleen. That being said, Dr. Pulkrabek is an excellent Dentist. Explains every procedure very well, detailed and also making sure I understand and he makes sure I feel comfortable during my visit. One of the great benefits when I'm in the Dental chair and Dr. Pulkrabek is working his magic on my teeth, It's always been practically painless Dentistry. I'm always extremely pleased with the outcome of the Dr's work on my Ivorys!! My overall experience has been outstanding with each visit. I highly recommend making an appointment with Dr. Pulkrabek for your Dental needs and concerns.

Renee C

I have been a patient of Dr. Pulkrabek and his team since probably 2005/2006. I have pretty severe dental anxiety and he is the only reason I’m able to show up for my six month cleanings. He is so gentle, thorough, knowledgeable, and fun. He is efficient. Contemplating a move out of the State and joked that we would probably keep him as our provider and just come back for cleanings. He is that good. Such an amazing dentist.

Barbara L

I have always been pleased with the staff and the doctor. The office manager is professional, and her experience shows as she engages with clients. The doctors assistant is professional, and very pleasant to deal with. The doctor himself, is knowledgeable, professional and always treats me as if I’m his only patient and I have no complaints about my dental care from him.

Jordynn B

Amazing Dentist! Staff was very friendly and I got an appointment very quickly! They gave me a great referral and helped with all my questions and concerns!

Megan T

Amazing dentist! Everyone in the office is amazing and professional. They made me feel at ease and this was the first time going to the dentist. They explain each procedure and how it will benefit your teeth and health.

Candice H

Dr. Pulkrabek and his staff are great. We have been coming here for years and would highly recommend.

Ahmed M

Dr. Adrian was super helpful and explain everything to me! Super easy visit. Extremely friendly staff that helped me with all the insurance and billing!

Julian M

Dr. Pulkrabek is a great dentist, and he does a very good job cleaning and examining teeth. He found a cavity growing underneath a prior filling after taking a closer look. The office staff and dental hygienists are all friendly and professional. I am looking forward to my next visit.

Natasha L

Great office! Everyone is super helpful and does a great job

Scaling and Root Planingin Glendale, Arizona

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