Necessity of Root Planing and Periodontal Scaling

Posted on 7/24/2023 by Evan

Are you considering root planing and periodontal scaling procedure? These are non-surgical procedures that are used for the treatment of dental gum diseases. Root planing and periodontal scaling are essential periodontal services. Scaling involves removing tartar from the teeth surface, while root planing is the process of smoothening the tooth surface and removing any infected tooth. They apply deep cleaning with ultrasonic devices or hand-held instruments to remove tartar and plaque around the teeth.

Who Needs Scaling and Root Planing?

Typically, healthy gum tissues are gently attached to the teeth. However, with periodontitis setting in, the pockets begin to grow deeper. This increases the risk of the teeth loosening and falling out. Root planing and scaling procedure are necessary for patients with deep spaces between their teeth that regular dental cleaning cannot reach. A study report by the American Dental Association showed that dental plaque gets stuck in this space and hence the deep cleaning. This deep cleaning procedure also works to improve your oral health by removing any build-up bacteria.

What to Expect During Scaling and Root Planing Treatment

The scaling and root planing procedure goes beyond the gum line to completely remove the tartar. To reduce discomfort, your dentists will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. Your provider will use a vibrating metal tip on the scaler to remove the tartar and a water spray to flush plaque from the gum pockets.

To remove any bacterial infections, the dentist will inject antibiotics injection directly into the gum pockets. Deep cleaning generally requires more than one visit, depending on the amount of scaling and planing required. Your dentist can also request follow-up treatment to check on the depth of the gum pocket.

In conclusion, root planning and scaling are necessary to improve oral health, especially if you are experiencing gum disease. Therefore, this means there is a need to undergo regular dental cleanings.