Scaling and root planing in Southaven, MS, is a nonsurgical periodontal therapy used to remove plaque and hardened tartar below the gumline and smooth the surfaces of tooth roots. This deep cleaning can help reduce gum inflammation, control periodontitis and protect the teeth and supporting structures from additional damage. Dr. M. A. Bleibel has treated more than 1,000 periodontal cases and has completed approximately 100 hours of continuing education focused on periodontal care.
What Is Scaling And Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning treatment used when gum disease has progressed beyond what can be addressed with a routine dental cleaning. When plaque and tartar collect below the gumline, periodontal pockets can form between the gums and teeth. These areas can harbor bacteria that contribute to inflammation and damage to the supporting tissues around the teeth.
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. Root planing smooths areas of the tooth roots so they are easier to keep clean and can support healthier gum tissue as healing progresses.
This type of periodontal therapy may be recommended when an examination shows signs of periodontitis, including deeper periodontal pockets, bleeding gums, gum recession or changes in the bone supporting the teeth.
How Scaling And Root Planing Can Help
Scaling and root planing may help:
- Remove plaque and tartar from areas below the gumline that cannot be reached effectively with routine brushing and flossing.
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding associated with periodontal disease.
- Decrease the bacterial buildup that contributes to gum disease.
- Help reduce periodontal pocket depths as gum tissues heal.
- Protect the bone and tissues that support the teeth from continued periodontal damage.
- Reduce the risk of tooth mobility and tooth loss associated with advancing gum disease.
- Create a healthier foundation for ongoing periodontal maintenance and home care.
Because gum disease can progress with few noticeable symptoms, periodontal measurements and dental imaging are important for determining whether deep cleaning is necessary.
How Scaling And Root Planing Works
Treatment begins with a periodontal evaluation. Your dentist or dental team may measure the spaces between your teeth and gums, evaluate bleeding and inflammation and use digital X-rays to assess the bone supporting your teeth.
- Assessment And Diagnosis: Periodontal measurements, examination findings and diagnostic images are used to evaluate the extent of gum disease.
- Comfort Measures: Local anesthesia may be used to numb the treatment areas and help keep you comfortable during deep cleaning.
- Scaling: Specialized instruments are used to remove plaque and hardened tartar from the teeth and from areas beneath the gumline.
- Root Planing: The surfaces of the tooth roots are carefully cleaned and smoothed to remove deposits and create a cleaner surface as the gums heal.
- Additional Periodontal Support: Depending on your individual condition, your dentist may recommend additional measures as part of your periodontal treatment plan.
- Reevaluation: Your gum health may be reassessed after treatment to evaluate healing, periodontal pocket depths and the need for ongoing maintenance.
Dr. Bleibel has treated more than 1,000 periodontal cases and has completed approximately 100 hours of continuing education in periodontal treatment.
What To Expect Before And After Treatment
Before scaling and root planing, our team will review your medical history, medications and any symptoms you have noticed. Your gums and supporting structures will be evaluated so your treatment can be planned according to the extent and location of periodontal disease.
During treatment, local anesthesia may be used to numb the areas being cleaned. You may notice pressure or vibration as plaque and tartar are removed, but the numbed treatment areas should remain comfortable.
After scaling and root planing, temporary gum tenderness, mild bleeding or sensitivity to temperature may occur. These symptoms generally improve as the gums heal. Follow the oral hygiene and aftercare instructions provided by your dental team.
Aftercare And Periodontal Maintenance
Good home care and ongoing professional maintenance are important after scaling and root planing because periodontal disease requires continued management.
- Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and the technique recommended by your dental team.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss, interdental brushes or another recommended cleaning aid.
- Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse if it is included in your treatment plan.
- Choose softer foods temporarily if your gums feel tender after treatment.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use, which can interfere with gum health and healing.
- Attend recommended periodontal maintenance appointments so plaque and tartar can be removed and changes in gum health can be monitored.
Routine dental cleanings and exams remain an important part of preventive care, but patients with a history of periodontitis may require periodontal maintenance rather than standard cleanings.
FAQs About Scaling And Root Planing
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