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SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

Introduction:

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning of your teeth below the gumline. It’s also called “periodontal debridement”. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. Tartar is plaque that has hardened on your teeth.

Procedure of Scaling and Root Planing:

Scaling and root planing is usually done by a dentist or dental hygienist. The procedure is often used to treat gum disease. It can also be done to prevent gum disease from getting worse.

1. The first step is scaling. This involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth above and below the gumline. Your dentist or dental hygienist will use a hand-held instrument called a scaler to do this.

2. The next step is root planing. This involves removing tartar and plaque from the roots of your teeth. Your dentist or hygienist will use a hand-held instrument called a periodontal curette to do this.

3. After the scaling and root planing is complete, your dentist or hygienist may recommend a course of antibiotics to help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease.

4. You may also be given a mouthrinse to help reduce the bacteria in your mouth.

5. Your dentist or hygienist may also recommend that you have your teeth professionally cleaned every three to six months.

Side effects of Scaling and Root Planing:

There are a few potential side effects of scaling and root planing, including:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Gum soreness
  • Mouth pain
  • Inflammation
  • Infection
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Gum recession
  • Periodontal disease recurrence

If you experience any of these side effects, be sure to contact your dentist or oral health care provider. 

Conclusion:

Scaling and root planing is a common periodontal therapy used to treat gum disease. The procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots, as well as smoothing out any rough spots on the roots that can trap bacteria.

Scaling and root planning can help to reduce inflammation and bleeding of the gums, as well as help to prevent further damage to the teeth and roots. The procedure is usually performed by a dentist or periodontist, and may require multiple visits depending on the severity of the gum disease.

 

FAQ’s:

1. Is Scaling and Root Planing painful?

No, it is not painful. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning of your teeth that helps to remove tartar, plaque, and bacteria. This procedure can help to improve your overall oral health.

2. Does Scaling and Root Planing whiten teeth?

No, scaling and root planing does not whiten teeth. This procedure is designed to clean your teeth and remove debris that can cause oral health problems. Whitening procedures are available to help improve the appearance of your smile.

3. What are the benefits of Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing can help to improve your oral health by removing tartar, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth. This procedure can also help to reduce gum inflammation and bleeding. Scaling and root planing can help you maintain a healthy smile.

4. What should I expect during Scaling and Root Planing?

You should expect your dentist or hygienist to thoroughly clean your teeth during scaling and root planing. This procedure can take one to two hours, depending on the severity of the tartar and plaque buildup. You may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but this can be alleviated with local anesthesia.

5. What are the risks of Scaling and Root Planing?

There are minimal risks associated with scaling and root planing. You may experience some temporary discomfort during the procedure, but this can be alleviated with local anesthesia. There is also a small risk of gum recession after the procedure. Your dentist will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you prior to the procedure.

6. How much Scaling and Root Planing cost?

The cost of scaling and root planing can vary depending on the severity of the tartar and plaque buildup, as well as the number of teeth that need to be treated. Your dentist will provide you with a detailed estimate prior to the procedure.

7. How to do Scaling and Root Planing at home?

Scaling and root planing is a procedure that should be performed by a dentist or hygienist. You can not perform this procedure at home.

8. When should I see my dentist for Scaling and Root Planing?

You should see your dentist for scaling and root planing if you have tartar or plaque buildup on your teeth. Your dentist will determine if this procedure is necessary based on an oral examination and x-rays.

9. Who performs Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a procedure that should be performed by a dentist or hygienist. You can not perform this procedure at home.