Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and Root Planing may be recommended as the first step in actively controlling your periodontal disease. It consists of a very thorough cleaning and smoothing of all the surfaces of the tooth and root that are accessible to the hygienist. Often, local anesthetic will be used to help make it more comfortable for you. Several appointments may be necessary to complete this very meticulous procedure.

Question and Answer:

Q: What is a “deep cleaning” (root planing, periodontal scaling, periodontal maintenance)?
A: It is a type of cleaning that removes plaque and calculus (tartar) below the gum line to the bottom of the pocket. This takes concentrated, meticulous, time-consuming hand instrumentation using a variety of specialized instruments. There is a possibility that local anesthesia may be needed to complete the deep cleaning.

Q: Why do I need this service?
A: Your gum tissue has lost attachment to the tooth, thereby creating a pocket. We measure the pocket depth in millimeters. Your root surfaces are rough due to deposits of plaque and calculus (tartar) buildup that are attached to your root surfaces. You can think of it as if it were coral or barnacles attached to the tooth under the gum line. The roughness harbors plaque, which is irritating to your gum tissue. With smooth root surfaces, supporting tissues can then reattach to the tooth surface, or at least decrease the inflammation encouraging a healthier pocket.

Q: What will happen if I don’t complete this series of treatment?
A: Damaged root surfaces will continue to harbor plaque and calculus (tartar) buildup, which is impossible to remove with your personal home care techniques. The plaque releases toxic waste products which provokes destructive responses from your body, such as swelling and bone resorption. It can result in irreversible loss of bone support around your teeth. As pockets become deeper, damage occurs more rapidly due to the inability to clean these areas. Tooth mobility, tooth loss and abscesses may occur if left untreated.

Q: How can I keep this from happening again?
A: Daily meticulous plaque removal at home will reduce the accumulation of plaque and prevent it from forming into calculus. This may include specialized tools for particularly difficult areas, improved brushing techniques, flossing, and/or prescribed medication (Periostat). Regular periodontal maintenance visits (cleanings), perhaps as often as every three months, will be needed to monitor and maintain your oral health. A surgical procedure may be needed to further reduce pocket depths.