Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure that removes calculus (hardened plaque) from below the gumline and smooths tooth root surfaces to promote gum reattachment and halt progressive bone loss. It is the first-line treatment for moderate periodontal (gum) disease and is one of the most effective ways to stop gum disease from advancing without surgery. At Sacramento Holistic Dentist in Carmichael, CA, we approach periodontal treatment with the same holistic, whole-body philosophy that guides all of Dr. Yana Pekarski's care — because gum disease is not just a dental problem; it has documented links to systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Whole-Body Health

Healthy gums are a gateway to whole-body health. The mouth is not isolated from the rest of the body — bacterial toxins and inflammatory mediators from periodontal disease enter the bloodstream and have been associated with:

• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
• Poor blood sugar control in diabetic patients
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth, low birth weight)
• Respiratory infections from inhaled oral bacteria
• Worsened systemic inflammatory conditions

Treating gum disease is not just about saving teeth — it is an investment in your overall health.

Why Calculus Below the Gumline Is Dangerous

Plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing hardens into calculus (tartar) within 24–72 hours. Calculus that forms below the gumline is rough and porous, providing an ideal surface for further bacterial colonization. As teeth move during normal chewing, the calculus irritates the gum tissue, triggering chronic inflammatory responses. This sustained inflammation leads to the breakdown of the periodontal ligament and the bone supporting the tooth roots — the progressive bone loss that characterizes periodontitis.

The Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Scaling and root planing — like all of our hygiene services — is performed by our hygienist, Oksana. Before beginning, she performs "probing" — measuring the depth of the dental sulcus (the space between each tooth and the surrounding gum) at six points around every tooth. Healthy sulcus depth is 1–3mm. Depths exceeding 3mm indicate either pseudopockets (from gum swelling only) or true periodontal pockets (with actual bone loss beneath). Both types benefit from SRP.

Using ultrasonic and hand instruments, Oksana carefully removes calculus and bacterial deposits from the root surface below the gumline, then smooths (planes) the root surfaces. Smooth root surfaces allow the gum tissue to reattach more tightly to the tooth, reducing pocket depth and bacterial habitat.

At our practice, we also use ozonated water irrigation during treatment — an antimicrobial rinse that disrupts bacterial biofilm and supports gum healing as part of our holistic approach.

Why Choose Sacramento Holistic Dentist for Periodontal Treatment

At our Carmichael practice, we treat periodontal disease as the systemic health issue it is. We use gentle but thorough technique, ozonated water, and a strong focus on home care coaching to help patients achieve and maintain gum health long-term. After SRP treatment, we transition patients to a periodontal maintenance schedule (every 3–4 months) to prevent recurrence and monitor progress. We serve Sacramento, Carmichael, Roseville, Folsom, Elk Grove, and Rancho Cordova.