Teeth Scaling and root planing are essential for preventing serious oral health issues like gum disease, bone loss and tooth loss. It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you notice any signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen and bleeding gums, or bad breath. Combined with regular brushing and flossing, teeth scaling and root planing can dramatically improve your oral health and your smile!
You may experience some bleeding or swelling after the procedure. But these symptoms should subside in a few days.
What is Scaling?
Teeth scaling is a dental procedure that helps to treat periodontal disease, which can cause gum recession, swollen gums, and tooth and bone loss. It involves using a tool to remove the bacteria and plaque that build up on the surface of the teeth and in the gum line. The procedure can be painful, but it is necessary to protect your gums and oral health.
During the teeth scaling process, your dentist or dental hygienist will use a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel any discomfort. Then, they will use an ultrasonic machine to remove the tartar from your teeth. They may also use hand scalers to reach hard-to-reach spots.
Once the procedure is over, your dentist will apply antibiotics to the area to help fight the infection. You will likely experience some sensitivity, but it should go away after a few days. The best way to speed up the healing process is to practice good oral hygiene habits.
How is Scaling Done?
Scaling is performed with a dental tool called a dental curette, which removes bacteria and biofilm build-up from the hard-to-reach areas of the gum line. This procedure may cause some discomfort, but it is typically tolerable and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Root planing involves smoothing out uneven surfaces on a tooth’s roots to prevent the re-accumulation of bacteria, biofilm and calculus. Your dentist may perform this part of the procedure while you are sitting in the chair or they will wait until you’ve been treated and have a more relaxed mouth.
What is Root Planing?
Tooth scaling and root planing is a deeper, more involved dental cleaning that removes bacteria-laden plaque and tartar from below the gum line as well as smoothing out the tooth roots to discourage further bacterial growth. It is usually necessary when there is moderate to severe gum disease, or periodontitis, present. This is a serious condition that can lead to the loss of teeth, and has been linked to other health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Teeth scaling and root planing can help patients with mild gum disease, or gingivitis, prevent progression to a more advanced stage of the condition, known as chronic periodontitis. It can also help patients who have pockets between their teeth and gums that are too deep to be cleaned with regular brushing, and may contribute to the loss of teeth and bone. Generally, this non-surgical procedure is painless, although the gums might be tender and sensitive after the treatment.
What are the Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing?
Besides the obvious benefits of a healthy mouth, scaling and root planing can help:
Preventing Gum Disease: When left untreated gum disease develops into a more advanced stage known as periodontitis. Periodontitis causes pockets to form around the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. If the bacteria is allowed to continue attacking the supporting bone and tissue of the mouth, it could result in serious complications for the rest of your body.
Removing Bacteria: Scaling and root planing removes the bacterial plaque that contributes to gum disease. This helps to stop or slow down the progression of gum disease and promotes healing.
Improves Oral Hygiene: Because of the smooth surface of the roots, it becomes easier to brush and floss your teeth. This helps prevent long-term damage to your teeth and bones as well as reducing symptoms of gum disease.