Perioscopy Assisted Scaling & Root Planing – San Antonio, TX

Healing Through a Better Vision...Without Surgery

Woman in dental chair before perioscopy assisted scaling and root planing treatment

Traditionally, patients diagnosed with periodontitis (gum disease) are treated with non-surgical scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as “deep cleanings.” If this treatment is not enough to control the disease, the next option most often recommended for people suffering from the advanced stages of gum disease was surgery. Surgery is often necessary to adequately visualize, clean, and sometimes rebuild an area affected by the effects of periodontitis. But what if we could visualize the affected areas to perhaps control the disease without surgery? That's exactly what's possible with endoscopy assisted scaling and root planing in San Antonio, TX.

Why Choose Lorenzana Periodontics

for Endoscopy Assisted Scaling & Root Planing?

Often Able to Help Patients Avoid Gum Surgery
Effective, Non-Invasive Care for Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontist with 25+ Years of Experience

What is Periodontal Endoscopy?

Periodontal endoscopy uses advanced miniaturized digital imaging technology that allows Dr. Lorenzana to see and treat areas deep below the gum line—often without the need for traditional gum surgery. This technology provides a level of visibility that was previously only possible through surgical access.

Using a tiny, high-resolution fiber-optic camera, Dr. Lorenzana can view magnified details of tartar deposits, bacterial buildup, and microscopic irregularities on the root surface that cannot be seen with conventional instruments alone. With this enhanced visualization, these areas can be precisely and thoroughly cleaned in real time, helping to eliminate infection while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.

This minimally invasive approach often allows patients to receive highly effective treatment with greater comfort, faster healing, and less need for surgical procedures.
Periodontal endoscopy is an advanced technology used by a select group of periodontal specialists worldwide, and Lorenzana Periodontics is proud to offer this highly specialized, minimally invasive treatment option.

What Periodontal Endoscopy Means for You

Periodontal endoscopy allows Dr. Lorenzana to treat gum disease with exceptional precision while using a minimally invasive approach. Because the infection can be seen directly, treatment can be performed more thoroughly while preserving your healthy gum tissue.

This often means:

Less need for surgical procedures
Greater comfort during and after treatment
Faster healing and recovery
Minimal bleeding and swelling
No incisions or sutures in many cases

Most importantly, periodontal endoscopy allows us to treat gum disease accurately and effectively while prioritizing your comfort and long-term oral health.
Many patients who were previously told they needed gum surgery are relieved to learn that periodontal endoscopy may provide a comfortable, minimally invasive alternative.

Endoscopy Assisted Scaling and Root Planing FAQs

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, Dr. Lorenzana and our team are here to help you restore your oral health comfortably and effectively. Before scheduling your consultation, you may find it helpful to learn more about endoscopy-assisted scaling and root planing. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you do not see your question listed, we invite you to contact our office—we are always happy to help.

What Is Scaling? What Is Root Planing?

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line. With periodontal endoscopy, we can see these deposits directly at high magnification, allowing for a more thorough and precise cleaning—especially in deeper areas that cannot be seen with traditional methods. Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces to make it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate and to promote healing of the surrounding gum tissue.

What Does the Procedure Feel Like?

In many cases, we use local anesthesia to ensure that our patients are comfortable while we work to help them fight gum disease. You may feel some pressure on your gums or teeth. Following the procedure, minimal bleeding and a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity are normal. Dr. Lorenzana or a member of our team will give you tips to make your post-procedure recovery as comfortable as possible.

Will I Still Need Gum Surgery After Endoscopy-Assisted Scaling and Root Planing?

In many cases, periodontal endoscopy allows us to treat gum disease thoroughly without the need for surgery. Because Dr. Lorenzana can see the infection directly using high magnification, he can remove harmful bacteria and tartar with exceptional precision.

In fact, after implementing periodontal endoscopy in our practice, the need for gum surgery was reduced by 88% (internal Lorenzana Periodontics data). While every patient’s condition is unique, this advanced technology allows many patients to be successfully treated using a minimally invasive, non-surgical approach.

Am I a Candidate for Periodontal Endoscopy?

Many patients with gum disease are excellent candidates for periodontal endoscopy, especially those who wish to avoid or minimize the need for surgery. This technology is particularly beneficial for patients with deeper gum pockets, areas of persistent inflammation, or those who want the most precise and minimally invasive treatment available.

Because periodontal endoscopy allows Dr. Lorenzana to see and treat infection directly beneath the gums, it can often provide effective treatment in situations where traditional non-surgical methods may be limited.

The best way to determine whether periodontal endoscopy is right for you is through a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Dr. Lorenzana will carefully assess your condition and recommend the most effective and comfortable treatment approach for your specific needs.

Can Scaling and Root Planing Be Completed in a Single Appointment?

This treatment is typically completed over two appointments to allow for careful, precise cleaning using periodontal endoscopy. By treating one section at a time, Dr. Lorenzana and his Team can thoroughly remove infection beneath the gum line using direct visualization—a level of precision not possible with traditional methods. This approach helps ensure the most effective treatment while keeping each visit comfortable and allowing optimal healing, supporting the best possible long-term results.

Is Scaling and Root Planing a Permanent Solution for Gum Disease?

Endoscopy-assisted scaling and root planing is highly effective at removing the infection that causes gum disease and allowing the gums to heal. With thorough treatment and proper maintenance, many patients are able to stabilize their periodontal health and avoid further progression.

However, gum disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home and attending regular periodontal maintenance visits are essential to keeping the gums healthy long term. With proper care and monitoring, most patients can successfully preserve their teeth and periodontal health for many years.

Does Insurance Cover Scaling and Root Planing?

Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for scaling and root planing, as it is an essential treatment for controlling gum disease and preserving oral health. Coverage levels vary depending on your individual plan, but many policies cover a significant portion of the cost. We will do our best to help you maximize your benefits and minimize your out of pocket costs.