Scaling and Root Planing

An Overview of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning treatment for your gums and teeth. Dentists recommend it when gum disease has caused plaque and tartar to build up below the gumline. Regular brushing and flossing cannot remove the deposits when they harden.

Scaling removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth. On the other hand, root planing smooths roots to make plaque buildup less likely. Smoother roots also help the gums reattach to the teeth.

You may need scaling and root planing if you have signs of gum disease. These include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Loose teeth

Your dentist can also recommend scaling and root planing if pockets have formed between your teeth and gums. Without treatment, gum disease can lead to bone loss and tooth loss. Scaling and root planing treat existing problems and help prevent further damage.

Some of the factors that could increase your risk of developing chronic periodontitis include:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of periodontitis. When you do not brush and floss regularly, plaque builds up on the teeth. The sticky film is full of bacteria that irritate the gums. Plaque hardens into tartar if it is not removed correctly.

You cannot remove tartar using regular brushing or flossing. Instead, you must undergo professional dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. When left on the teeth, tartar irritates the gums, leading to inflammation and gum recession. Over time, the infection destroys the bone that supports the teeth.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking is another significant risk factor for chronic periodontitis. Tobacco weakens the immune system. This makes it harder for the body to fight off gum infections. Nicotine also reduces blood flow to the gums, which slows healing. Smokeless tobacco is not a safe alternative. It can still damage gum tissue and cause bone loss. People who smoke are also more likely to have periodontitis that resists basic treatment.

Genetics

Some people are more prone to gum disease because of their genetic makeup. Genetics can influence how your immune system responds to bacteria. Even with proper brushing and flossing, some individuals may still develop periodontitis. You should ensure appropriate oral care if gum disease runs in your family. Additionally, you must see your dentist regularly. During these visits, your dentist will assess your oral health. They will detect signs of infection and offer intervention services.

Underlying Health Conditions

Certain health conditions are risk factors for the development of chronic periodontitis. For example, gum infection is more common among those with diabetes because high blood sugar impairs immune response and healing.

Some autoimmune diseases alter the immune system, increasing gum tissue. Gum infections can cause more damage when the immune system becomes compromised. If you have one of these conditions, you must manage it effectively to prevent gum disease.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can also make gums more sensitive. Pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation are some of the factors that influence hormonal changes. Hormones affect how your body responds to bacteria. Therefore, you may experience gum swelling and sensitivity when your hormones are imbalanced.

Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Scaling and root planing restore the health of your gums. Additionally, it reduces the progression of gum disease. The procedure takes the following steps:

Preparing for the Procedure

The process starts with your dentist or hygienist examining your mouth. During the examination, they check your gums for swelling, redness, and bleeding. The dentist will often take an X-ray to see if there is any bone loss or hidden tartar buildup. Before starting the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia. It keeps you comfortable throughout the cleaning.

Scaling

Your dentist will start by scaling when your gums become numb. Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. The dentist cleans above and below the gum line using specialty tools. The instruments can be hand scalers, curettes, or ultrasonic devices. The vibrations and water stream utilized by ultrasonic scalers work to displace hardened buildup. Scaling involves reaching into gum pockets to remove accumulated bacteria.

Root Planing

Root planing smooths the exposed root surfaces after scaling. Bacteria and toxins cling more easily to rough surfaces. Smoothing the roots makes it harder for bacteria to attach. This step also encourages the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth. Additionally, it reduces the depth of gum pockets.

Some patients can complete their treatment in one visit. Others may have one side or one quadrant cleaned at a time. Sectioning ensures each part receives careful attention. Root planing and scaling sessions may last from 45 minutes to two hours.

How Often Should I Undergo Scaling and Root Planing?

The number of sessions you need for root planing and scaling depends on the severity of your gum disease. If your condition has progressed, you may need more regular sessions. Root planing and scaling are mostly done once as an initial treatment. After the first session, you will need regular maintenance cleanings every three to four months.

You may need another scaling and root planing session if gum disease returns or worsens. People more likely to get gum disease may require the process more often. During checkups, your dentist will look at your gum health and tell you the best plan for you. Deep cleanings are unnecessary if you take care of your teeth and have them cleaned by a professional.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from under the gumline. This type of cleaning reaches where regular brushing and flossing cannot reach. Your dentist can recommend the procedure to restore oral health from gum disease. Common benefits of scaling and root planing include:

It stops the progression of gum disease.

Gum disease starts when plaque builds up around your teeth. The infection can progress from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis if left untreated. Scaling and root planing remove the bacteria that cause the infection. It can help stop or slow disease progression. You can preserve the health of your natural teeth and gums with a deep cleaning.

Reduces Gum Inflammation and Bleeding

Periodontitis causes gum inflammation, redness, and tenderness. Furthermore, the gums may bleed when you brush or floss. Deep cleaning reduces the bacterial buildup under the gums. Bacteria removal allows the gum tissues to heal naturally. Swelling and bleeding gradually subside when the gums heal. After scaling and root planing, your gums may feel more comfortable and healthier.

Eliminates Bad Breath

When you have severe gum disease, you may have bad breath. Bad breath arises when bacteria in the mouth produce foul-smelling toxins. Bad breath causes you to feel self-conscious in your interactions with other people. Scaling and root planing remove the bacteria and tartar contributing to these odors.

Helps Gums Reattach to the Teeth

Your gums may pull away from the teeth during the advanced stages of gum disease. Gum recession creates pockets that trap food and bacteria. Scaling and root planing clean inside these pockets. When the gums can heal, they reattach to the teeth. A healthy attachment strengthens your gums and protects your teeth from further damage.

Prevents Bone Loss

Your jawbone holds your teeth in place, where they should be. Loss of teeth due to periodontal disease can cause damage to the jawbone. Scaling and root planing remove the bacteria that are destructive to the jawbone. This process maintains the bone structure and keeps your teeth stable.

Improves Overall Oral Health

Healthy gums can make your teeth and smile look better. Deep cleaning minimizes harmful bacteria and thus reduces the chances of infections. Daily brushing and flossing are more efficient with cleaner gums and teeth.

Saves Money

The treatments for advanced periodontitis can be costly. Some of these procedures include gum surgery or dental implants. Scaling and root planing are more affordable procedures that act as preventive care. The procedure helps you avoid more serious and costly dental procedures in the future.

Minimally Invasive and Quick Recovery

Scaling and root planing are non-surgical treatments for advanced gum disease. You are completely comfortable due to local anesthesia, and the recovery time is minimal. You will not have to be concerned about serious complications accompanying surgical procedures. Most people can return to their usual activities almost immediately after the dental appointment.

Supports Better Overall Health

Gum disease has been linked to other health issues. When left untreated, gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, and some respiratory problems. This phenomenon happens when bacteria from diseased gums enter the bloodstream. Receiving scaling and root planing as treatment for gum disease reduces your risk of developing these diseases.

Aftercare Instructions for Scaling and Root Planing

After scaling and root planing, proper aftercare is essential. It helps reduce the risk of complications and speeds up recovery. Your dentist can provide you with aftercare instructions regarding the following topics:

Eating and Drinking

Before root planing and scaling, your dentist will administer anesthesia. After the procedure, the dentist will recommend waiting for the anesthesia to wear off before you start eating. Failure to do this can result in accidentally biting your tongue and gums.

When ready to eat, you should chew carefully to avoid gum injuries. Furthermore, you should choose soft foods for the first day or two. Gentle foods for your teeth and gums include yogurt, mashed potatoes, eggs, and smoothies. You should avoid sticky, tough, or crunchy foods.

Managing the Soreness

Scaling and root planing interfere with the gums and tooth roots. Therefore, you may experience discomfort and soreness after the procedure. The soreness disappears after several hours. However, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to address it if you are advised to do so.

Oral Hygiene

Root planing and scaling eliminate plaque from below the gumline. Practicing good oral hygiene after the root planing procedure prevents the recurrence of gum disease. Your dentist suggests using a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid injuring the gums. After brushing, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to prevent gum irritation.

Avoid Smoking.

Smoking is a harmful habit for your oral health. It slows down healing from the procedure and can stain your teeth. Therefore, dentists discourage smoking for individuals who have undergone root planing.

Attend Follow-up Appointments

Your visits to the dentist should not end after the procedure is done. You will need to make follow-up appointments. During these visits, your dentist will check whether your gums are recovering correctly. Additionally, they can detect signs of complications and address them.

Potential Complications of Root Planing and Scaling

Root planing and scaling are standard, effective, and safe procedures for treating advanced periodontitis. But, as with any dental work, there is the possibility that complications may arise. Common complications might include:

Gum Sensitivity

Your gums may become more sensitive after scaling and root planing. The process disturbs the gum tissue, causing temporary irritation. Gum sensitivity may make chewing uncomfortable. It can also make brushing and flossing feel slightly painful.

The gum tenderness improves within a few days for many patients. However, in some cases, it may last longer. You can reduce the sensitivity by rinsing your mouth with salt water. Additionally, you should follow the dentist’s instructions.

Tooth Sensitivity

Your dentist exposes the tooth root during the scaling and root planing procedures. These exposed surfaces can react to temperature changes, which result in sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is common when you take hot or cold foods and drinks.

The sensitivity occurs because the tooth roots are more vulnerable to external stimuli. Your dentist can recommend that you use desensitizing toothpaste. Furthermore, you should avoid foods with extreme temperatures after the procedures. For most patients, the tooth sensitivity improves within a few weeks.

Gum Recession

Scaling and root planing can reveal gum recession hidden by swelling or inflammation. When the gums heal, they may pull back slightly from the teeth, making the roots more visible. Although the treatment does not cause the recession, it uncovers the symptom. Gum recession can change the appearance of your smile and may increase the risk of root sensitivity. Occasionally, a severe recession will require additional treatment, such as gum grafting.

Gum Bleeding and Swelling

Bleeding is a typical result of deep cleaning. Furthermore, your gums may swell due to the manipulation and cleaning of infected tissue. Bleeding and swelling can make the mouth feel sore and make chewing uncomfortable. However, the symptoms usually improve within 24 to 48 hours.

You can reduce the swelling through gentle brushing, flossing, and using a recommended antibacterial rinse. You should consult your dentist if bleeding continues after 48 hours or becomes heavy.

Infection Risk

There is a slight chance of infection after scaling and root planing. The risk increases under the following circumstances:

• You have a weak immune system.
• You have uncontrolled diabetes.
• You have poor oral hygiene.

Bacteria can enter the gum tissues during or after the procedure and cause an infection. Some symptoms of illness you should look for include swelling, fever, and pus formation. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics for high-risk patients to prevent infection.

Damage to Tooth Surfaces

Scaling and root planing are safe when they are performed correctly. Over-instrumentation can thin root cementum/dentin, increasing sensitivity. You can avoid these issues by consulting a skilled dentist. Furthermore, regular checkups can help ensure no long-term harm occurs.

Find an Experienced General Dentist Near Me

If you have severe periodontal gum disease, you may need scaling and root planing. Gum disease is a serious oral health condition caused by accumulated bacteria on the gums. When left untreated, the condition can result in tooth loosening.

Scaling removes tartar from tooth surfaces above and below the gumline. The dentist administers local anesthesia before starting the treatment to make it less painful. After removing the tartar and plaque, the dentist will polish the smooth surfaces and make buildup less likely. Root planing and scaling help slow the progression of gum disease. It can also reduce bad breath and make your mouth healthier.

You can improve the outcome of your procedure by consulting an experienced dentist and following all the aftercare instructions. If you or a loved one needs expert dental services in Calabasas, CA, we invite you to book an appointment with us at Calabasas Smiles Advanced Dentistry. Call us at 818-878-7300 to discuss your oral health needs.