Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing
What is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is a deeper cleaning that helps to clear away tartar and debris from the deep pocketing around teeth. If you have gum disease, pocketing will form around the infected teeth. It’s nearly impossible for you to get these deep pockets clean on your own. The procedure is performed by our licensed and registered hygienist as a way to get these areas clean to prevent progression of the disease.
Why is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing needed?
You may need a scaling and root planing if you have mild to moderate gum disease. If you fail to treat your gum disease, it can and will eventually get worse. Untreated gum disease can eventually lead to tooth and even underlying bone loss. It is important to treat the disease with a deeper cleaning done in our office.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
To determine if you may need a scaling and root planing, we can perform an exam and gum health check. This involves using a small and painless probe that measures the pocketing around each tooth. If the pocketing is deeper than about 3mm, we will advise you to have a scaling and root planing. The procedure is normally performed in two consecutive visits.
What can you expect with a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
We will first numb one side of your mouth using local anesthetic. The hygienist will then clear away tartar and stains from above the teeth. They will then work deeper underneath the gum line to clean out the gingival pocketing that has formed as a result of the disease. The roots of the teeth are smoothed (planed) to ensure that the gums are able to more closely heal against the teeth. You will then be scheduled to come back in to have the other side of your mouth treated in the exact same manner.
If you think you may need a scaling and root planing, call the office today so that we can get you in for a quick and convenient appointment.
