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Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Did you know that 47% of adults aged above 30 suffer from a severe gum disease known as chronic periodontitis? Nearly half of the adults over this age are advised by their dentists to consider deep cleaning. In the dental context, deep cleaning refers to non-surgical periodontal therapy, often referred to as periodontal scaling and root planing.

Who is This Procedure For?

Periodontal scaling and root planing are often recommended to individuals suffering periodontal diseases. If you are diagnosed with gingivitis/ periodontitis, these procedures help you reverse the situation and improve your oral health.

In a nutshell, periodontal scaling and root planing are for individuals who need deep cleaning on their teeth for healthy and strong oral hygiene.

What is Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?

These are procedures specialists use to remove plaque in the treatment of gum disease. The procedures are often costly, slightly uncomfortable, and takes longer than standard professional cleaning. Periodontal scaling and root planning are restorative dental procedures involving calculus (tartar), and plaque stuck below and above the gumline.

The procedures are also performed to smooth the teeth rots to eliminate bacterial toxins. Periodontal scaling and root planing are often necessary, especially after your bones, gums, and adjacent tissues are damaged due to periodontitis.

Benefits of Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

It is an effective treatment for individuals with gum diseases. Below are some of the advantages of the procedure:

1

It eliminates bad breath. Gum disease causes severe oral health issues, such as chronic bad breath. Unfortunately, bad breath impacts one's self-confidence and personality. Dental scaling and root planing can significantly help you eliminate bad breath problems.
2

It prevents tooth decay. Your root planing dentist focuses on eliminating the harmful deposits in your roots. This helps you eliminate harmful bacteria, tartar, and plaque otherwise hard to reach with a toothbrush. With these procedures, you can significantly overcome challenges like periodical pocket formation and tooth decay.
3

It prevents tooth loss. Deposits below gum lines often lead to the formation of larger pockets between the teeth and gums. A decay and infection increase around your roots may result in teeth loss. Periodontal scaling and root planing potentially help avoid tooth loss.
4

It stops gum diseases. Gum disease often leads to more severe complications and is mainly caused by bacteria deposits due to plaque build-up. Failure to treat gum disease quickly may lead to more severe problems such as lung diseases and cancer. It makes more sense to do the periodontal scaling and root planing procedure to avoid further complications.
5

It protects your tooth roots. These procedures help strengthen your tooth's roots by eliminating harmful deposits such as plaque and bacteria.
6

It generally improves your oral health.

Step-By-Step Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

The procedure involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains from one’s teeth and roots. The process typically include;

1

Local anesthesia administration

The membrane-stabilizing drug helps to control pain and bleeding. Once the dentist injects you with the local anesthesia, you will feel a temporary loss of sensation in about five minutes. You will remain conscious and awake during the entire procedure.
2

Scaling

The dentist then performs the subgingival scaling by removing calculus and scaling beneath and beneath the gums, as well as the base of the crowns. It is done either with ultrasonic equipment or manually.
3

Root planing

As periodontitis persists, it often damages the dentin, cementum, or both. Planing smooths the rough surfaces and removes subgingival bacteria. The procedure involves the removal of cementum, the calcified film covering the tooth's root. It may also include removing a small dentil layer, the second teeth layer developing below the enamel.
4

Post-surgery

Once the surgery is done, the specialist flushes the area to eliminate any remaining bacteria.

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing Aftercare Tips

Common symptoms after the procedure include;

  • Irritated gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Inflammation and swelling of the treated areas
  • Tooth discomfort like sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary substances

Practicing good hygiene is necessary to keep your teeth healthy. Follow-up appointments a few weeks after the procedure to assess your progress.

Final Thoughts

Periodontal scaling and root planing are necessary to reduce the chances of periodontal diseases and tooth damage. The procedures help you maintain good oral hygiene and boost your confidence. Consult with your dental expert if you think you might need a deep cleaning procedure as soon as possible.

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