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Contents
  • What Exactly Is It?
  • When Is It Needed?
  • The Procedure Explained

Scaling and Root Planing: The Deep Clean Your Teeth Might Need

Scaling and Root Planing: The Deep Clean Your Teeth Might Need

Beyond the Basic Brush

When regular brushing isn't enough to combat gum disease, dentists turn to a powerful procedure called scaling and root planing. This 'deep cleaning' can be a game-changer for your oral health.
Contents
  • What Exactly Is It?
  • When Is It Needed?
  • The Procedure Explained

What Exactly Is It?

Scaling and root planing is like a super-charged dental cleaning that goes below the gumline. Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from tooth surfaces and under the gums. Root planing smooths out rough spots on tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to stick. Think of it as power-washing and resurfacing your teeth's underground structure.

When Is It Needed?

This procedure is typically recommended when gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis to periodontitis. Signs you might need it include deep pockets between teeth and gums, persistent bad breath, or gums that bleed easily. Your dentist will measure these pockets to determine if scaling and root planing is necessary.
Scaling and root planing is a dental procedure used to treat gum disease by removing tartar and bacteria from tooth surfaces and below the gumline, followed by smoothing tooth roots.

The Procedure Explained

Usually done under local anesthesia, the process can take multiple visits to complete your whole mouth. Special instruments and sometimes ultrasonic devices are used to remove buildup. Afterward, you might experience some sensitivity, but this typically subsides within a week. Your dentist may prescribe antimicrobial rinses or medication to aid healing.

FAQs

Is scaling and root planing painful?

Local anesthesia makes the procedure comfortable for most patients.

How long does the procedure take?

Typically 1-2 hours per quadrant of your mouth.

Will my insurance cover it?

Many plans cover it as a major procedure, but check your specific coverage.

A Fresh Start for Your Smile

Scaling and root planing offers a chance to halt gum disease and preserve your natural teeth.
Wondering if you need a deep cleaning? Consult with Doctronic to evaluate your gum health and explore your options.
Additional References
  1. Caffesse RG, Sweeney PL, Smith BA. Scaling and root planing with and without periodontal flap surgery. J Clin Periodontol 1986; 13:205.
  2. Smiley CJ, Tracy SL, Abt E, et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis on the nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis by means of scaling and root planing with or without adjuncts. J Am Dent Assoc 2015; 146:508.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.