5 FAQs About Scaling and Root Planing From a Periodontist

Scaling and root planing from a periodontist may seem like an intimidating and invasive procedure, but it actually causes minimal discomfort. Read on to learn more. It is helpful to understand answers to frequently asked questions when preparing for scaling and root planing procedures from a periodontist.

5 Common questions about scaling and root planing from a periodontist

Many patients have questions about what exactly scaling and root planing entails, the procedure’s safety, and how it differs from the regular dental cleaning process. The following are answers to these questions, as well as more information about scaling and root planing from a periodontist.

1. What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing, also called deep dental cleaning, is a periodontal cleaning procedure used to treat a severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. This in-office, non-surgical procedure involves cleaning beneath the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that contribute to gum disease.

2. How are scaling and root planing different from regular dental cleanings?

A regular dental cleaning involves cleaning the surface of teeth and along the gum line. A scaling and root planing cleans deeper and goes beneath the gum line. Whereas a regular cleaning is performed more for preventive reasons, a scaling and root planing procedure is used as a treatment for periodontitis.

3. What does a scaling and root planing procedure entail?

There are two steps to scaling and root planing. The first is scaling; this step involves removing all plaque and tartar on teeth above the gum line and beneath the gum line. The second step is root planing. This involves smoothing and polishing the tooth roots to allow the gums to properly reattach to the root of each tooth. The procedure is performed one quadrant at a time. This may take place during a single dental visit or a follow-up visit may be scheduled to finish all four quadrants.

4. When is scaling and root planing necessary?

Scaling and root planing may be necessary if the patient has gum pockets that are deeper than 4 millimeters or shows other signs of periodontitis such as bleeding gums, gum discoloration, gum tenderness, and gum recession. A periodontist may conduct an oral examination and order dental x-rays before making a recommendation for a scaling and root planing procedure.

5. Is scaling and root planing safe?

Scaling and root planing are minimally invasive and generally considered safe. The dentist may use numbing agents to reduce any discomfort the patient experiences, but the effects wear off relatively soon after the procedure and most patients are able to drive themselves home afterward. There are very minimal risks, and most patients make a full recovery within a few hours after the procedure.

The benefits of scaling and root planing

The most notable benefits of scaling and root planing include improved periodontal health, an improved smile, long-term cost savings, and a reduced risk of tooth loss.

Improved periodontal health

The primary purpose and benefit of scaling and root planing from a periodontist is improved periodontal health. Periodontal disease can lead to symptoms such as swollen gums, gum tenderness, gum discoloration, deeper gum pockets, and gum recession, and scaling and root planing is often the first step to addressing these symptoms.

A more attractive smile

The focus of scaling and root planing is on improving the periodontal health of the patient. However, in doing so, many patients report a more attractive smile that improves their self-image. Specifically, this benefit results from addressing symptoms such as gum swelling, discoloration, and avoiding additional gum recession.

Long-term cost-saving benefits

Avoiding a scaling and root planing procedure most often leads to a worsening of gum disease symptoms and other oral health concerns. To address more severe issues, dentists typically need to perform more extensive and invasive treatment that is more costly for the patient.

Reduced risk of tooth loss

Tooth loss is often the inevitable result of periodontal disease that goes untreated. This occurs as a result of the continual weakening of the supporting structures of teeth (the gums and the underlying jawbone). Scaling and root planing help prevent the loss of teeth by cleaning beneath the gum line to remove harmful bacteria and tartar.

The bottom line

If you experience any symptoms of periodontitis, such as bleeding gums, gum tenderness, teeth sensitivity, deep gum pockets, and gum erosion, then contact our dental office today to schedule a visit.

Request an appointment here: https://corderoperiodontics.com or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at (561) 763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.

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