Since roughly 65 million Americans have periodontal disease, which is a more advanced form of gingivitis, management of the condition can be difficult. Scaling and root planing is a surgery-free way to treat later-stage gum disease. While it’s a common method of treatment, you may not know much about it. If a dentist has recommended this deep-cleaning procedure to you recently, here are the answers to questions you may have.

Everything You Need to Know About Scaling & Root Planing

Why would someone need to have this procedure?

All teeth develop a thin layer of bacteria called plaque. Frequent brushing, flossing, and standard teeth cleanings at the dental office can get rid of most of it. Once plaque builds up, however, it hardens into tartar, and the bacteria can spread to your gums, making them tender and inflamed.

If the gum disease becomes more advanced as time goes on, the gums will begin to recede, and small pockets will begin to develop between your gums and teeth. Plaque can then begin to build up in the pockets, and at that point, you can no longer get rid of the bacteria with the usual methods. If the plaque remains in the spaces and the pockets grow deeper, it could lead to bone and tooth loss.

What happens during a scaling and root planing procedure?

Scaling and root planing is a two-part process, and depending on the extent of the procedure, it may take more than one appointment to complete. You’ll likely be administered a local anesthetic to ease any potential pain. The scaling half of the procedure will involve the dentist removing all the tartar from the pockets and gum line using a special manual or laser therapy tool. 

The root planing half of the procedure will involve your dentist smoothing out the rougher parts of the roots of your teeth beneath the gum line. Smoother roots will make it harder for bacteria to attach themselves. This will encourage your gums to reattach to the teeth.

Your dentist may recommend a medication called subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline, which is directly inserted into the irritated pocket to enhance the efficiency of the planing procedure.

Is there anything needed for aftercare?

You may experience some soreness after the anesthetic wears off, and your teeth could be sensitive as well. Over-the-counter pain relief products are usually enough to ease discomfort. Most importantly, your dentist will teach you better hygiene habits, such as proper brushing and flossing, to prevent gum disease from worsening before your next appointment.

 

If you’re interested in a scaling and root planing procedure, visit Larry G. Hubbard, DDS in Statesboro, GA. The practice has been offering dental solutions to Bulloch County residents since 1978. Reliable and approachable, Dr. Hubbard will answer any questions you have and walk you through everything you need to know about your planing and scaling procedure, which will involve a special laser therapy tool for the most efficient and pain-free results. For more information, visit him online or call (912) 764-9891.