What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Our teeth are forming plaque all the time. Almost everything we eat and drink mixes with the bacteria in our mouths, creating an acid to break down the carbohydrates in our food. This acid then forms plaque on our teeth. If the plaque is not removed, it will harden and become tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.

Brushing and flossing our teeth daily and routine dental cleanings are the first defenses in removing this plaque. If we neglect to form these habits, our teeth can develop gum diseases, like gingivitis – a mild form – and periodontitis – which is more severe. These gum diseases cause inflamed, red, or tender gums. Your gums will also recede and create pockets where plaque and tartar will form.

To treat gum diseases, your dentist or dental hygienist will use techniques called scaling and root planing. Scaling is the first step. It is done at every routine cleaning to prevent gum disease:

• Your dentist or dental hygienist will use a metal hook-like tool (called a scaler) or an ultrasonic scaler.

• They will use the tool to scrape the surface of your teeth and gumline to remove plaque and tartar.

Root planing is an even deeper clean:

• If necessary, your dentist may administer a local anesthetic to numb the area.

• He or she will use a scaler to smooth out the root surface underneath the gums, removing plaque and tartar.

• Afterwards, your dentist may apply a medicine to your gums to minimize the pain, help the gums heal, or to prevent infection.

Make sure to practice good dental care after the procedure to prevent gum disease from recurring. Contact our office at Midland Family Dental for more information on scaling and root planing!