What is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is a type of cleaning that aims to remove debris from above and below the gum line. For patients with gum disease, their gums will slowly begin to separate from the teeth, causing pocketing to form around the teeth themselves. These gingival pockets can accumulate debris, plaque and tartar, further progressing the infection and disease. To clear out these pockets and keep your gums healthy and clean, a scaling and root planing is performed by a registered dental hygienist.
Why would you need a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
It is nearly impossible to clean the deep pockets that have developed around your teeth as a result of gum disease. If you fail to treat gum disease, it can and will continue to get worse. Over time, the disease can cause your teeth to become loose and they may even fall out. To preserve the health of your smile, a deep cleaning is necessary.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
If you have gum disease, you may find that your gums bleed when brushing, flossing or even biting down into different foods. You might have persistent bad breath that can’t be covered up with gum or mints. In the office, we can check the health of your gums by probing the soft tissue around each tooth. If the pockets around the teeth are deeper than normal, this could be a sign that you have gum disease.
What happens during a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
We will numb one whole side of your mouth using a local anesthetic. Our hygienist then works to remove tartar, plaque and debris from both above and slightly below the gum line. The gingival pockets are cleared of all debris and the roots of the teeth are smoothed to improve the chances of the gums healing closely to them. The procedure takes about an hour in our office. You will then be scheduled to come back to have the other side of your mouth treated. This prevents your entire mouth from being numb at the same time.
If you think you might need a scaling and root planing, call our office today so that we can get you in for a convenient consultation appointment.