
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical periodontal therapy used to treat gum disease. This procedure involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of teeth and roots of teeth below the gumline, which helps to prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
How does scaling and root planing work?
Scaling and root planing typically involves the following steps:
- Examination: The dentist will examine the teeth and gums to assess the extent of gum disease.
- ‌Scaling: Using special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and below the gumline.
- ‌Root planing: Then smoothing out the surfaces of the roots of the teeth to remove any remaining bacteria and toxins.
- ‌Antibacterial treatment: An antibiotic may be applied to the gum pockets to help eliminate any remaining bacteria.
- ‌Follow-up care: The dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the teeth and gums following the procedure, and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress.
Is scaling and root planing painful ?
Scaling and root planing can cause some discomfort, but it is usually not painful. The dentist will numb the gums using a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, the gums may be tender and sensitive for a few days, but over-the-counter pain medication can usually provide relief.
What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing offers several benefits for patients with gum disease, including:
- ‌Improved oral health: Scaling and root planing can help improve oral health by removing harmful bacteria and toxins from the teeth and gums.
- ‌Reduced inflammation: Scaling and root planing can help reduce inflammation in the gums, which can help prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
- ‌Prevent tooth loss: By removing bacteria and toxins from the teeth and gums, scaling and root planing can help prevent tooth loss caused by gum disease.
- ‌Fresher breath: Scaling and root planing can help improve bad breath caused by gum disease.
- ‌Reduced risk of systemic health problems: There is growing evidence that gum disease is linked to a range of systemic health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. By treating gum disease with scaling and root planing, patients may be able to reduce their risk of developing these health problems.
In summary, scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal therapy used to treat gum disease. It involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of teeth and roots of teeth below the gumline. Scaling and root planing can help improve oral health, reduce inflammation, prevent tooth loss, improve bad breath, and reduce the risk of systemic health problems. Your dentist can help determine if scaling and root planing is the right option for you based on your individual needs and the extent of your gum disease.