Scaling and root planing, also known as non-surgical treatment or conventional periodontal therapy, is a chair-side dental procedure that involves the removal of the accumulated dental plaque and mineralized calculus (tartar) followed by the smoothing and planing of the root surfaces, which includes removing the outer surface of the root (cementum) that has calculus, toxins, and microorganisms on it. They are non-surgical procedures that are used when the periodontal tissue needs healing after suffering from periodontal disease. Dentists mostly recommend to patients that scaling and root planing be done once every six months. They are collectively referred to as deep cleaning. They are more in-depth than the regular teeth cleaningsregular teeth cleanings that we get done. Reasons To Get Scaling And Root Planing Done Dentists recommend patients get scaling and root planing done every six to eight months or if the patient is suffering from chronic periodontal diseases. These dental procedures help treat and stop the harmful effects of the disease and help to keep the oral cavity healthy. Such chronic periodontal diseases cause the dental plaque bacteria to cause the gums to separate or pull away from the tooth surface. This leads to the formation of large and deep pockets that lead to the further accumulation of the bacteria in the pockets. Due to this, the plaque gathers there and is difficult to remove by regular tooth brushing. The reasons why scaling and root planing are needed are as follows: -Bone and supporting tissue loss -Exfoliation of the teeth -Loosening of the teeth -Poor oral hygiene -Smoking -Aging -Hormonal changes -Poor nutrition -Family history -Systemic conditions -Bleeding gums -Inflamed and red gums -Change in bite -Bad breath (Halitosis)

The Procedure Of Scaling And Root Planing The steps that are included in scaling and root planing that leads to a comfortable experience are as follows: -The dental procedures that are scaling and root planing can be done at the dental office or at the outpatient department. -The number of appointments that the patient schedules is dependent on the condition of the patient’s teeth that how severe or mild it is. -If the patient has a very severe periodontal disease with a higher grade of tooth mobility, then local anesthesia is used. This is done to lessen the discomfort and pain of the patient. If a severe condition is not present, then local anesthesia is not required. -From both the procedures, scaling is done first. Depending on the financial status of the patient, the scaling can be manual scaling or ultra-scaling. Nowadays, ultra-scaling is considered the best option available as it is easier to operate for the dental professional and is convenient for the patient. -In scaling, the dental professional uses a scaler with a pointed tip or a curette to scrape off the plaque that is present above the surface of the gums. This is known as supra-gingival plaque. -Next, we come to the root planing. In this procedure, the plaque accumulated under the gums is removed. For this, a scaling tool that smoothes out the root surfaces is used. -By root planing, the plaque accumulated between the tooth and gums is removed that is present in deep periodontal or gingival pockets. This smoothing helps your gums to reattach to your teeth. -The dentist may also recommend additional treatment depending on the health of the patient’s teeth and gums. The dentist may use antimicrobial agents in the patient’s mouth or prescribe oral antibiotics for them to take for several days to help them heal faster. -The dentist may also perform a process called host modulation in which additional medication, such as 0.2 percent chlorhexidine mouthwashes, is administered directly into the patient’s gums to help correct the negative effects of long-term periodontitis or reduce the chances of infection following the procedure. Benefits Of Scaling And Root Planing There are many benefits of scaling and root planing. They are as follows: -Having a brighter and whiter smile: When a person does not properly brush, over time, plaque and even calculus may accumulate on the tooth surface and will make the teeth appear yellow. Professional scaling and root planing remove all hardened calculus before the teeth are carefully polished, lifting some surface stains. -Avoiding bad breath: By performing these procedures, the food particles trapped in between the tooth surfaces are removed. These are the sole cause of bad breath, also known as halitosis. -Better gum health: The accumulated plaque has disease-causing bacteria that are removed if scaling is done regularly. This decreases the risk of developing gum disease. -Protect your general health: Gum disease has been linked to many serious health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and even certain cancers. Professional scaling and root planing is an effortless way to reduce the risk. -Preventative care is cheaper: Over time, it is far cheaper to prevent dental disease than to treat it, and attending regular hygiene appointments helps to reduce dental bills.

FAQs -What can I expect after scaling and root planing? After scaling and root planing, the patient may experience slight discomfort around the teeth that may last up to several hours. The patient may notice some sensitivity to hot and cold (and sometimes sweet) food and beverages for up to six weeks. This is a normal course of healing. -How long does it take for scaling and root planing? The entire treatment lasts about one or two hours, eliminating the gum infection with minimal inconvenience. If the case is severe and the infection is widespread, the procedure may take longer or require multiple appointments. -Is scaling and root planing painful? No, the procedure is not painful. You may experience discomfort upon completion, but the actual process can be completed with the administration of a local anesthetic to the soft tissue to minimize any unpleasant feelings during the process.