What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing or a “deep cleaning” is a procedure where the teeth and roots are cleaned below the root surface. Often times, plaque and calculus accumulates below the gums and causes bone loss. Scaling and root planing allows cleaning of the roots of the teeth so your gums can re-attach to the teeth.
Why do I Need a Scaling and Root Planing?
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection that develops over time. Harmful bacteria can grow below the gums and cause destruction within the bone and tissue around teeth. Conventional cleanings are often not enough to clean these areas. Successful cleaning of these areas is accomplished through non-surgical periodontal treatment, including scaling and root planing. This procedure includes cleaning the root surfaces below the gums in order to remove plaque and calculus build-up from deep periodontal pockets to remove harmful bacteria to leave a smooth, clean surface that promotes healthy gums.
The procedure is completed by numbing the gums and using a ultrasonic machine and hand instruments to reach the depths of gum pockets. Sometimes systemic or localized antibiotics are indicated to help control the infection.
A re-evaluation is completed 4-6 weeks after treatment to assess the re-attachment of the gums and assess the need for any further treatment if needed.