Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a straightforward procedure for treating gum disease. It may also be called a deep cleaning.

Scaling and root planing also known as deep cleaning, main goal is to eliminate all factors that cause gum (gingival) inflammation in order to restore gingival health.

Treatment for gum disease involves deep cleaning beneath the gum line with scaling and root planing.

Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing Treatment (Deep Cleaning)

A dental scaling procedure is usually performed by a dental hygienist and sometimes by a Dentist..

Scaling and Root planing is used when existing gum diseases such as periodontitis (gum disease that causes an infection between the teeth and bone) exist. Sometimes, it is also performed as part of an emergency procedure as for a painful or diseased tooth.

A Dental Procedure Worth Doing

During scaling, any and all plaque and tartar (which is simply hardened plaque) from above and specially below the gum line will be removed from the surface of the teeth, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.

This procedure is can help to improve gum health and reduce the risk of tooth loss.

It's important to note that periodontal scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical procedure. It is done with handheld instruments or ultrasonic devices.

After a deep cleaning patients are placed into a program called Periodontal Maintenance, in which patients receive these maintenance appointments every three months in order to help maintain and improve the results obtained.

CONCLUSION

In general, scaling and root planing is done to improve the condition of the gum tissue by removing plaque build-up and for controlling and preventing future gum disease.

The results are not always visible immediately after scaling or root canal treatment. After the treatment, it may take some time until symptoms of inflammation subside.

After a deep cleaning, you may have pain for a day or two and teeth sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and sometimes bleed. That's a normal reaction that goes away in a couple of days. 

Always consult your dentist if any of those conditions persist for longer than usual.



After a Deep Cleaning it is very important to perform Periodontal Maintenances every 3 months in order to maintain the results achieved.