Experienced Root Planing & Deep Cleaning in Finchley

Seek a consultation if you show signs of periodontitis such as bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, persistent bad breath, or gums that recede. The issue typically involves plaque and tartar below the gumline that creates pockets between teeth and gums. Common signs include gums that bleed during brushing or flossing, swelling or tenderness, persistent bad breath, and teeth that look longer as gums pull back. A recent patient from North Finchley arrived with bleeding gums and was diagnosed with early stage periodontitis after evaluation. Root planing stopped the disease from progressing. This treatment is essential when planning other dental work, like implants, because healthy gums are required.

The root planing process at our Finchley clinic typically spans two appointments of about 60 to 90 minutes each. First, local anaesthetic blocks the area so you feel no pain, only pressure. Then a hygienist or dentist uses an ultrasonic scaler and fine hand tools to remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and deep inside the gum pockets. This is the scaling phase. Next we smooth the tooth roots so the gums reattach and future plaque buildup decreases. Finally, you receive aftercare instructions. A follow-up visit a few weeks later checks healing and measures pocket depths.

After root planing you may feel tenderness for a few days. Gums may be sore and teeth could be sensitive to hot and cold, which usually eases within a week. Follow a soft food diet for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid very hot or spicy foods. Manage discomfort with over‑the‑counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Keep up excellent oral hygiene and brush gently around the treated areas for the first days. Red flags include severe swelling, increasing pain after three days, or signs of infection like fever. During office hours you should call our practice if you need advice. For emergencies outside hours, dial 111 or go to the nearest A&E.

Root planing works well for periodontitis but it is not the only option. For mild gum inflammation without deep pockets, a standard professional cleaning may suffice. This cleans above the gumline and does not resolve deeper issues. For very advanced periodontitis with bone loss and deep pockets, surgical options might be more appropriate. These can include flap surgery to clean the roots directly or gum grafting. We begin with the least invasive, effective option. At your Finchley consultation we use digital imaging to assess your condition and discuss whether non surgical root planing or an alternative suits you.

To understand the treatment well, ask questions at any North London dental practice. For example, how severe is your gum disease and what are your pocket depth measurements? How many appointments will root planing require? What are the total costs, and does this include the follow up visit? What results should you expect, and how will success be measured? What is the long term maintenance plan after this treatment? Do you accept private plans like Denplan or Cigna?

As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered. The cost of scaling and root planing depends on gum disease severity and the number of teeth treated. A full, transparent quote is provided after your initial consultation. For example, one patient from Muswell Hill needed treatment on the lower teeth only, which cost a different amount from someone needing a full mouth deep clean. We keep pricing clear with no hidden fees. We accept several private plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact our reception to discuss coverage.