Scaling and Root Planning

The objective of scaling & root planning is to remove etiologic agents that cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone.  Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus). Scaling and root planning treatments are only performed after a thorough examination of the mouth where we will take X-rays, conduct visual examinations, and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning these procedures.

What is scaling and root planing? 

Scaling and root planing is a common non-surgical procedure performed to treat gum disease (periodontitis) and improve the health of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It involves thorough cleaning of the teeth and roots below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and bacterial toxins that contribute to gum inflammation and periodontal disease.

What is the procedure?

1. Scaling:

   • Purpose: Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that adheres to your teeth and can harden into tartar over time if not removed. Tartar buildup below the gumline is a common cause of gum disease.
   • Procedure: During scaling, the dental hygienist uses specialized instruments called scalers or ultrasonic devices to carefully remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, including along the gumline and between the teeth. The scaling process may involve both manual and ultrasonic techniques, depending on the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
   • Benefits: Scaling helps eliminate bacterial toxins and irritants from the teeth and gums, reducing inflammation and preventing further damage to the periodontal tissues. It also creates a clean and smooth surface on the teeth, making it easier for you to maintain good oral hygiene at home.

2. Root Planing:

   • Purpose: Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth to remove bacterial toxins, plaque, and tartar that have accumulated below the gumline. It aims to eliminate rough areas and irregularities on the roots, which can harbor bacteria and contribute to gum disease.
   • Procedure: Root planing is typically performed after scaling to address any remaining plaque and tartar deposits on the root surfaces. The dental hygienist uses specialized instruments called curettes to carefully clean and smooth the roots, reaching deep into the periodontal pockets to remove bacterial buildup.
   • Benefits: Root planing helps promote gum reattachment to the tooth roots and reduces the depth of periodontal pockets, making it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate and cause further damage. It also creates a clean and smooth surface on the roots, which facilitates healing and promotes periodontal health.

3. Post-Treatment Care:

   • After scaling and root planing, patients may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, as well as gum bleeding and swelling. This is normal and should improve within a few days.
   • Patients are typically advised to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing regularly, using antimicrobial mouth rinses as recommended, and attending follow-up appointments for periodontal maintenance.

Scaling and root planing is an effective non-surgical treatment for gum disease that helps improve the health of the gums and prevent further progression of periodontal disease. It is essential to undergo regular periodontal evaluations and follow the recommendations of your Dr. Lemons and your dental hygienist to maintain optimal oral health.

Will it hurt? What should I expect?

The procedure of scaling and root planing can vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of gum disease, pain tolerance, and the techniques used while performing the procedure. Here's what you can generally expect during scaling and root planing:

1. Preparation: Before the procedure begins, the dental hygienist will review your medical history, discuss any concerns or questions you may have, and explain the steps involved in scaling and root planing. They may also perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to assess the severity of gum disease and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

2. Anesthesia: In many cases, local anesthesia (numbing medication) is administered to ensure your comfort during scaling and root planing. The anesthesia is applied using a topical gel or spray to numb the gums before injecting a local anesthetic into the area being treated. This helps minimize discomfort during the procedure.

3. Scaling: The dental hygienist will use specialized instruments called scalers or ultrasonic devices to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth, especially along the gumline and below the gumline. This process may involve both manual scaling with handheld instruments and ultrasonic scaling with vibrating instruments that use water and high-frequency vibrations to remove plaque and tartar.

4. Root Planing: After scaling, the dental hygienist will perform root planing to smooth the root surfaces of the teeth and remove bacterial toxins, plaque, and tartar that have accumulated below the gumline. This process helps promote gum reattachment to the tooth roots and reduces the depth of periodontal pockets.

5. Sensation: You may experience sensations such as pressure, vibrations, or occasional mild discomfort during scaling and root planing. However, any discomfort should be manageable and temporary, and the dental hygienist will take steps to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

6. Post-Treatment Care: After scaling and root planing, you may experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity, or gum bleeding, which is normal and should improve within a few days. Your dental hygienist will provide post-treatment instructions, including recommendations for oral hygiene practices and any prescribed medications as well as schedule your follow-up appointments or periodontal maintenance.

Scaling and root planing is typically well-tolerated by most patients and is essential for managing gum disease, improving oral health, and reducing further bone loss. If you have concerns or anxiety about undergoing scaling and root planing, don't hesitate to discuss them with your dental hygienist, who can provide reassurance and address any questions or issues you may have.