Dentists recommend oral checkups and teeth cleaning twice yearly to keep teeth and gums healthy. Yet 47.2% of adults over age 30 in the United States suffer from chronic gum disease, known as periodontitis.  When dentists see signs of unhealthy gums, they may recommend scaling and root planing. Here’s what you need to know about this dental procedure.

Questions a Dentist Receives About Scaling & Root Planing

How can I tell if I have unhealthy gums?

In a healthy mouth, gum tissue fits snugly around each tooth. There should be a distance of only 1 to 3 millimeters between the gum pocket and tooth when your dentist measures it. Larger spaces may indicate gum disease.  

How will I know if I need scaling and root planing?

A heavy buildup of tartar along the gumline, chronic bad breath, and gum pocket depths of 4 millimeters signal periodontal disease. If they notice these issues, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning process that treats this gum disease.

What does the process involve?

This deep cleaning procedure has two parts. First, your dentist performs scaling, which cleanses your teeth and root surfaces of tartar, plaque, and toxins resulting from bacteria. Second, root planing smooths the root surfaces to prevent the substances from redeveloping. This process allows your gums to heal so the pocket depths can return to normal.

What happens after the deep cleaning?

As you heal, you might experience gum pain, swelling, and tenderness for a couple of days. Your teeth might also feel sensitive for about a week. Your dentist will likely place medication into the pocket to help prevent infection or may give you a prescription for an oral medication. In most cases, the follow-up visit will show a firm, pink gum tissue that indicates you are in the healing process.

When Anchorage, AK, residents have questions about caring for their teeth and gums, they ask J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S.  As a dentist with over three decades of experience, his services include teeth cleaning, scaling, root planing, dental bridges, and crowns. Dr. McBratney welcomes new patients and offers convenient Saturday hours to fit dental visits into your busy schedule. Visit his website to learn about his services and call (907) 562-3323 today to schedule an exam.