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Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing
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What is a Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is a type of procedure that works to clean the pockets around each of your teeth. If you have gum disease, the gums will actually separate from the teeth, causing pocketing between the soft tissue and the tooth itself. These pockets become a perfect area for bacterial infections that further progress the disease. In order to prevent the disease from progressing, a scaling and root planing can be done.
Why is a Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing needed?
If you have gum disease, you may need a scaling and root planing. This type of procedure is often called a deeper cleaning because it’s performed by a hygienist who uses the same skills and techniques to clean your teeth. The difference is that the hygienist will clean the teeth slightly below the gum line and smooth the roots of the teeth to promote even healing of the soft gum tissue.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing?
Anyone who has gum disease is a good candidate for a scaling and root planing. The procedure is easy, quick and prevents the disease from progressing. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and it affects millions of people worldwide. It’s important to treat the issue before it is allowed to truly affect your oral health.
What happens during the Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing procedure?
A scaling and root planing typically starts with a local anesthetic administered only to one side of the mouth. The hygienist then works to clean the teeth and removes any hardened plaque from the surface. The hygienist then goes below the tooth’s surface so that the pockets can be thoroughly cleaned out. You will then be scheduled to come back in for the other side of the mouth to be treated. The procedure takes about an hour for each visit in the office, and it’s critical to helping your oral health.
If you think you might need a scaling and root planing and would like to come into our office with low wait times, call us today and we can schedule an appointment for you.