Scaling and Root Planing
Dental Scaling and Root Planing Explained
Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is crucially important when it comes to their integrity. Some patients need to have a scaling and root planing done in order to get rid of excess buildup on their teeth as well as clean out gum tissue pockets that are found around each tooth.
What is a Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing are often referred to as a deeper dental cleaning. It involves removing excess buildup on the tooth, like tartar and calculus, and getting into the pockets around each tooth to ensure that they are free of bacteria and particles.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Scaling and Root Planing?
There are several reasons why the dentist or hygienist will recommend having a scaling and root planing done. These reasons include:
- You have gingivitis
- You have gum disease
- You have heavy tartar and calculus buildup on your teeth
What to expect with the procedure
The scaling and root planing procedure is relatively easy and straightforward. First, during the scaling process, the area being worked on will be numbed for your comfort. From there, the hygienist uses a range of instruments to carefully scrape and remove buildup off the teeth and around the gumline. They will then clean underneath the gum line and rinse out the gingival pockets to ensure proper evacuation of bacteria or plaque. Root planing is when the tooth roots are smoothed to allow for the gumline to attach back to your tooth. You will need to come back for additional appointments for other areas of the mouth to be treated.
If you need a scaling and root planing, contact us today and one of our helpful staff members will be happy to assist you further!