Scaling & Root Planing

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

We promise, it’s not as scary as it sounds. In fact, this isn’t even a surgical procedure, but more of a deep cleaning. We might recommend that you undergo this treatment if you have a buildup of plaque and calculus that we feel is currently causing issues or could cause problems in the future.

Scaling

Scaling, done under local anesthetic, entails using a specialized dental tool, called an ultrasonic scaling tool, to scrape away plaque, tartar and calculus that has accumulated above and below the gum line. In many cases, an oral irrigation is also performed, which is used to reduce bacteria below the gum line by delivering an antimicrobial agent. The main purpose of this procedure is to remove bacteria from below the gum line that may have been contributing to periodontal disease. Hopefully, with the help of this procedure, we can get you as close to a clean slate in your oral health as possible. That way, you can redouble your oral healthcare efforts without old bacteria standing in the way.

Root Planing

If you have rough spots in your roots, we might recommend that you undergo root planning. Rough spots on your roots make it difficult for your gums to attach to your teeth at the proper places, causing pockets to form. These rough spots also provide the perfect spot for damaging bacteria to hide and periodontal disease to develop and fester. During a root planing procedure, your roots will be smoothed, cleaned, scraped and disinfected in order to remove bacteria and give your gums a clean, smooth surface to reattach to your teeth.

Scaling and root planning can be monumentally helpful in improving your oral health and helping to combat periodontal disease. If you have any questions or want to know if scaling and root planing is right for you, contact us online, call 210.824.0111 or schedule an appointment today.