Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing in Arlington Heights, IL

What are Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing or Gum Treatment and Periodontal Laser Disinfection?

A periodontal scaling and root planing is done to help stop the progression of gum disease. When gum disease develops, small pockets form between the teeth and gums. These pockets allow debris, plaque and bacteria to thrive, further infecting the soft tissue and causing the progression of the disease. Scaling and root planings, sometimes referred to as deep cleanings, can help to keep these gingival pockets clean.In our office we use dental lasers to disinfect the pocket and reduce the pocket depth. It helps decrease the amount of bacteria that causes periodontal disease. This gives you a chance to get a better control of your gum disease.

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    At Definite Dental, we are proud to have Dr. Shilpa Mailapur, a board-certified periodontist, leading our protocols for gum disease treatment. With her advanced training in laser therapy, soft tissue management, and implantology, Dr. Mailapur offers a modern and comprehensive approach to periodontal care. Patients benefit from her extensive clinical experience and compassionate style—especially during procedures like scaling and root planing, where comfort and precision are critical.


    Using her expertise in periodontal laser disinfection, Dr. Mailapur customizes treatment plans for each patient, ensuring that care is both effective and minimally invasive. Laser-assisted therapy offers many advantages, including reduced inflammation, less bleeding, and quicker recovery times. Whether you're experiencing early signs of gingivitis or advanced periodontitis, her goal is to restore your oral health while making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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If you’ve been told you have gum disease—or if you’re experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth sensitivity—it’s time to schedule an evaluation. Dr. Mailapur and our team at Definite Dental will carefully assess your oral health and recommend the right course of action to protect your smile and prevent further complications. Contact us today to reserve your personalized consultation.

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Scaling and root planing example

Most often, a scaling and root planing is needed because a patient has periodontal (gum) disease. When you have gum disease, small pockets form around the teeth, giving bacteria and plaque a place to build up. It is very difficult to keep these pockets clean on your own, even with twice-daily brushing. If the pockets aren’t kept cleaned, the disease progresses, and can eventually lead to tooth and bone loss. However, the key difference between a scaling and root planing and a regular dental cleaning is that the hygienist cleans underneath the gum line while simultaneously smoothing the roots of the teeth.

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    Left untreated, periodontal disease doesn’t just threaten your teeth—it can affect your overall health. Studies have linked chronic gum inflammation with heart disease, diabetes, and even respiratory conditions. That’s why Dr. Mailapur places such a strong emphasis on early intervention and patient education. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, she follows evidence-based treatment protocols that target the root cause of the disease, not just the symptoms.


    By addressing inflammation at its source and combining mechanical cleaning with supportive treatment therapies, such as laser disinfection, Dr. Mailapur’s approach helps patients regain control over their oral health. Her background in both clinical periodontics and research gives her the ability to adapt treatments to each patient’s needs, ensuring better long-term outcomes.

Why are Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing necessary?

Most often, a scaling and root planing is needed because a patient has periodontal (gum) disease. When you have gum disease, small pockets form around the teeth, giving bacteria and plaque a place to build up. It is very difficult to keep these pockets clean on your own, even with twice-daily brushing. If the pockets aren’t kept cleaned, the disease progresses, and can eventually lead to tooth and bone loss. However, the key difference between a scaling and root planing and a regular dental cleaning is that the hygienist cleans underneath the gum line while simultaneously smoothing the roots of the teeth.

  • Read More

    Left untreated, periodontal disease doesn’t just threaten your teeth—it can affect your overall health. Studies have linked chronic gum inflammation with heart disease, diabetes, and even respiratory conditions. That’s why Dr. Mailapur places such a strong emphasis on early intervention and patient education. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, she follows evidence-based treatment protocols that target the root cause of the disease, not just the symptoms.


    By addressing inflammation at its source and combining mechanical cleaning with supportive treatment therapies, such as laser disinfection, Dr. Mailapur’s approach helps patients regain control over their oral health. Her background in both clinical periodontics and research gives her the ability to adapt treatments to each patient’s needs, ensuring better long-term outcomes.

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If you’re looking for a new dentist's office look no further. This was hands down the BEST dental experience I have ever had. I needed a significant amount of dental work done and knew it prior to my first cleaning with Definite Dental Solutions. The staff was so informative, nice, and gave me a straightforward treatment plan for my teeth.


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What makes you a good candidate for Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?

Most patients who have gum disease are good candidates for this deep cleaning. To determine if you have gum disease, we will use a thin, painless probe to measure the pocketing around each tooth. If the pocketing is deeper than about 3mm, this is often a sign that you have gum disease and require treatment. It is best to have a deep cleaning done as soon as possible to prevent progression of the disease.

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    Dr. Mailapur takes time to assess each patient’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and oral habits to determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, she may recommend additional diagnostic imaging or bacterial testing to further evaluate the extent of periodontal involvement. This comprehensive evaluation helps ensure that treatment is not only timely but also tailored to your unique condition.


    Patients with risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, or genetic predisposition to gum disease may require ongoing periodontal maintenance even after scaling and root planing. Dr. Mailapur guides patients through long-term prevention strategies, including at-home hygiene practices, dietary changes, and regular periodontal checkups to maintain gum health and prevent recurrence.

What can you expect with routine Dental Exams & Cleanings?

First, local anesthetic is applied to the side of the mouth that will be receiving the scaling and root planing. The hygienist then uses tools called scalers to scrape away any tartar, plaque and stains from the teeth. The hygienist then works the scalers deep below the gums to clean out the gingival pockets that have formed. The roots are planted and smoothed so that bacteria does not adhere to these areas. You will need to come in for a second appointment to have the other side of your mouth professionally deep cleaned.

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    At Definite Dental, Dr. Mailapur often supervises these appointments for patients with moderate to severe gum disease. In some cases, she may personally perform the procedure using advanced periodontal tools and techniques that ensure a high standard of care. Thanks to her training in IV sedation and patient comfort protocols, even patients with dental anxiety can feel relaxed during the procedure.


    After treatment, patients receive personalized post-care instructions and product recommendations to enhance healing. Dr. Mailapur may also prescribe antimicrobial rinses or localized antibiotics to support tissue regeneration. Follow-up visits are essential, as they allow the team to monitor healing and determine whether additional therapy is needed.

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The Role of Periodontal Maintenance

Following a successful scaling and root planing, patients enter a maintenance phase to prevent reinfection and further damage. This phase is crucial for long-term success. Dr. Mailapur typically recommends periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months, depending on the severity of the initial infection and how well the gums respond to treatment.

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    These maintenance visits go beyond standard cleanings. They focus on cleaning below the gumline, monitoring gum pocket depth, and identifying any signs of recurring inflammation. Dr. Mailapur’s close follow-up care ensures that any issues are addressed early—often before symptoms even appear.


    Her patients also benefit from education on oral hygiene tools like water flossers, interdental brushes, and prescription toothpaste, all of which can help reduce plaque buildup and promote gum healing.

Why Choose Dr. Shilpa Mailapur for Your Periodontal Care?

Dr. Shilpa Mailapur brings a unique combination of expertise, empathy, and precision to her work as a periodontist. Her background includes a DMD from Boston University and a three-year residency in Periodontology at Indiana University. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology—a credential that reflects her commitment to the highest level of clinical excellence.

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    Her treatment philosophy centers on patient empowerment and comfort. Whether it’s your first gum treatment or part of a long-term periodontal plan, Dr. Mailapur will take the time to explain every step, answer your questions, and help you feel confident in your care. Her calming presence and dedication to precision have earned her the trust of countless patients throughout Arlington Heights and beyond.


    At Definite Dental, patients have access to a full range of periodontal solutions—from deep cleanings to soft tissue grafting, bone regeneration, and implant placement—without needing to be referred to another office. That continuity of care under Dr. Mailapur’s guidance helps improve outcomes and enhances the overall patient experience.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums

If you’ve been told you have gum disease or you’re noticing signs like bleeding gums or chronic bad breath, don’t wait to seek care. Periodontal disease can be effectively managed—and even reversed in its early stages—with the right treatment approach. Dr. Shilpa Mailapur and our team at Definite Dental are here to help you protect your smile for life.


Call us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.

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