Scaling & root planing
Focused nonsurgical care below the gumline.
Care for the teeth
you want to keep.
Healthy gums help support the teeth you use every day. If you have bleeding, recession or concerns about gum disease, our Bakersfield team can help you understand what is happening and how to care for your smile.
What signs should I discuss with my dentist?
Bleeding, swollen or receding gums, persistent bad breath and loose teeth are reasons to arrange a dental evaluation. Gum disease can also develop without noticeable pain. An examination helps determine the cause of your symptoms and whether periodontal treatment is appropriate.
Understand what is changing.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. Periodontitis affects the deeper tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Knowing which tissues are affected helps explain the diagnosis and the purpose of treatment.
What a periodontal evaluation looks at.
An examination considers the spaces between your gums and teeth, bleeding, recession, tooth movement and bone support on appropriate dental images. Your health history, home care and previous treatment also matter.
For periodontitis, staging describes the extent and complexity of disease; grading considers its likely progression. Dr. Dreyer can explain what those findings mean for your teeth and the priorities in your care.
Treatment matched to the findings.
Scaling and root planing removes deposits along the roots below the gumline. After healing, reassessment helps determine whether nonsurgical care has adequately addressed the affected areas. Persistent deep pockets or tissue defects may need surgical care. Grafting has a different purpose: supporting or rebuilding selected soft-tissue or bone areas.
Comfort belongs in the conversation.
Tell us if dental visits make you anxious. Local anesthesia helps numb the treatment area, and oral relaxation, nitrous oxide or a planned oral conscious-sedation visit may be considered after evaluation. We will discuss which approach fits your health and treatment.
Explore comfort & relaxation options
Your periodontist
Andrew C. Dreyer, DDS, MS
Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Dreyer brings specialty training and seven years of Air Force service to periodontal and implant care in Bakersfield.
Meet Dr. DreyerStay connected with your regular dentist.
Active treatment and ongoing maintenance are parts of the same plan. Your periodontist and general dentist can coordinate follow-up, including whether visits should alternate between offices. The timing depends on your periodontal condition and response to care; it is not a fixed schedule for everyone.
Learn about periodontal maintenanceYour questions, answered.
Do I need a referral to book an evaluation?
No. You can contact our office directly to schedule a periodontal evaluation. If you already have a dentist, let us know so we can discuss relevant records and coordination of care.
Will treatment involve surgery?
Not always. Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical treatment, followed by reassessment and maintenance. Surgery may be considered when deeper pockets, tissue defects or other findings need additional care. Your evaluation and response to treatment guide that decision.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Local anesthesia helps control pain in the area being treated. Anxiety can be addressed separately with a comfort plan. You may have tenderness afterward; discuss expected recovery and the instructions for your particular procedure before treatment.
Will I keep seeing my general dentist?
Yes. Specialist periodontal care works alongside your general dental care. The two offices can coordinate maintenance and restorative needs, with the schedule tailored to your condition.
For referring practices.
Share the clinical question, periodontal charting, relevant images and restorative goals. Call (661) 665-0077 for secure transfer instructions and to discuss how ongoing care should be coordinated.
Referral instructions & fillable formGum disease information from the American Academy of Periodontology · Nonsurgical treatment explained