You may have heard of scaling and root planing, but many patients feel unfamiliar with the procedure and its vital importance to their oral health.
If you have periodontal disease, scaling and root planing is the first-line treatment for plaque and tartar buildup, both above and below the gum line. This blog describes a typical procedure and can help you understand why it is essential for those with periodontal disease.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
This procedure is a two-step process and one of the cornerstones of periodontics. During the procedure, a dental professional will use a metal instrument called a scaler to remove every trace of plaque and tartar from your teeth. Your practitioner will take particular care in the areas near and below the gum line.
Next, your practitioner will use another instrument called a planer to clean and smooth the root surfaces. Smoothing the surface allows healthy gum tissue to reattach to the roots.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Plaque and tartar buildup from inadequate oral hygiene trigger the earliest stage of periodontal disease. As debris continues to build around the gums, it releases bacterial waste products that break down and weaken the gums and the bone underneath.
Scaling and root planing is a way to slow the progression of periodontal disease because it removes sources of toxic bacterial waste from your teeth and gums.
What Happens During Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing often cover one half or one quadrant of the mouth at a time. This careful approach means that your scaling and root planing could take multiple appointments.
Anesthesia
The first step in this process is local anesthesia to protect the tender and irritated gum tissue. This anesthetic makes the procedure more comfortable. The majority of patients do not need any other forms of anesthesia.
Oral Exam
Next, the practitioner performs a complete oral exam, checking the teeth and gums for progress in your periodontal condition.
Scaling
Scaling is the next step. Some minor bleeding and swelling are common during scaling due to the nature of periodontal disease. You can manage this discomfort at home using over-the-counter medication.
Root Planing
Root planing is the next step. Typically, it takes longer than scaling due to the delicate nature of the process.
In total, the procedure can take anywhere from one to two hours, and it may sometimes continue over two appointments depending on the condition of your gums.
Follow-Up
If your periodontal disease continues to progress after scaling and root planing, you may need to repeat the procedure multiple times over an extended period.
Saving Teeth With Periodontal Treatment
While periodontal disease is not reversible past its earliest stage (gingivitis), you can keep it in check using scaling and root planing as well as more involved procedures.
Focus on Home Oral Hygiene
Take excellent care of your oral health at home and use any mouthwashes or special products your dentist recommends. Any skipped or rushed oral hygiene practices may cause a recurrence of periodontal symptoms.
Gum Disease is Preventable
Remember that gum disease is preventable for most patients. If you take good care of your teeth and gums and visit your dental professional as recommended, you may not develop any symptoms at all.
When you need periodontal care, visit a practice that offers the most comprehensive care available, like Metrowest Prosthodontics. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
These signs include:
- Red, tender, inflamed gums
- Bleeding gums
- Deep pockets between gums and teeth
- Receding gums
- More space between teeth
- Foul breath
If you have any of the above symptoms, contact a periodontal specialist immediately.
How does periodontal disease endanger my teeth?
Late stages of periodontal disease involve gums and bone weakened by toxic bacterial waste. Once the gum and bone undergo this type of damage, it can be a challenge for your dentist to save your teeth. Periodontal specialists use tools like splints, gum grafts, and bone grafts to try to halt the progression of the condition.
Our experienced team at Metrowest Prosthodontics in Framingham, MA, protects your smile by performing vital periodontal procedures like scaling and root planing. Contact our office to schedule an appointment today!