What Is Scale and Root Planing?

Patients who have developed excessive plaque buildup and gum disease may be good candidates for a cary scale and root planing procedure. Unlike a traditional cleaning, which focuses on the surface of your teeth above the gum, scaling and root planing goes below the gum line to remove accumulated plaque and tarter that is not accessible through standard brushing or flossing.

Scale and root planing is an effective method for treating gum disease, an issue that is currently affecting over half of American adults. If your dentist has determined you have developed periodontitis and recommends a scaling and root planing procedure, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment. It is a safe and relatively painless procedure that can be remarkably effective in reversing gum disease.

What is Involved in the Scale and Root Planing Procedure?

The dental scaling process typically begins with the area where the scaling and root planing is being performed being numbed with a local anesthetic. Once properly numbed, your dentist will begin removing the plaque and tarter from the surface of your teeth right below your gum line. Your dentist will use handheld instruments (dental scalers and curettes), which allow them to scrape the plaque off the tooth and below the gum line in areas that are not accessible by your toothbrush. They may also use an ultrasonic instrument to perform this procedure, which combines a metal tip that vibrates and removes tartar, along with a water spray that will flush the pocket out.

Once the scaling process is complete, the root planing will be performed. Root planing is similar in nature to the scaling procedure, but it will reach the surface of the root of your teeth, which will be smoothed out, allowing the gums to reattach correctly.

What Does the Procedure Feel Like?

Patients who have sensitive gums may find the scaling process to be mildly uncomfortable. If this is the case, your dentist may use an anesthetic to numb your gums to reduce discomfort. If you are uncertain or uncomfortable with the prospect of having this procedure performed, talk to your dentist about what numbing and sedation options they offer.

The dental scaling and root planing process may require several visits, with each visit focused on treating one section of the mouth. Your provider will typically divide this treatment process into four quadrants or two halves. Patients who have less severe gum disease may be able to have the entire process performed in one visit, though the procedure time will be lengthy.

What to Expect Afterwards

Following your scaling and root planing procedure, it is common to feel some sensitivity and soreness. It is also not uncommon to have some bleeding or swelling for a few days after the procedure. During this recovery period, you may want to use a desensitizing toothpaste and may be prescribed a mouthwash that is designed to keep your gums clean. Your dentist will typically schedule a follow up appointment to examine your gums and re-measure your gum pockets to ensure that you are healing properly. If your pockets have stayed the same depth or gotten deeper, it may be necessary to consider alternative treatment options.

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