The Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Scaling and dental root planing is a procedure that is aimed at preventing and treating periodontal diseases during the early stages. It is a non-surgical process that is aimed at the removal of dental plaques and calculus which are linked to the inflammation of the gum. The procedure is carried out in-office in clinics and the dentist uses specialised equipment to scrape the teeth. This treatment may be ideal for you if you have early active gum disease, small periodontal pockets around the teeth and significant mineralised calculus. The dentist may recommend scaling and root planing on all teeth or only on specific teeth if the disease is localised.

Before Treatment

A periodontal disease diagnosis must be established before your dentist approves you as a candidate for root planing and scaling. Moreover, your medical history will have to be evaluated to ensure that there are minimal potential risks during and after the treatment. For instance, you may need system antibiotics if you are an at-risk patient with prosthetic valves or joints. Blood thinning treatments may also have to be suspended prior to the day of the procedure. Local anaesthetic is typically administered to eliminate sensitivity of the roots and gums. In addition, you will have to use an anti-microbial rinse to minimise the live bacteria in your oral cavity. This will prevent soft tissue infections and development of cold sores post-treatment.

Calculus Removal and Planing

The calculus deposited on the teeth and roughened dental cement is identified using a specialised probe which is known as an explorer. Periodontal scrapers and curettes are used to scrape the surfaces in conventional treatment. However, there are modern ultrasonic tools for the procedure which are considered to more efficient, less uncomfortable and faster in completing the task. You should discuss the possibility of this choice with your dentist since not all scaling procedures require the advanced tools. Root planing is aimed at smoothing the dental surfaces after calculus removal so as to make the teeth less retentive to plaque. The scaling and root planing treatment is beneficial since it delays and even eliminates the need for surgical periodontal procedures. It also promotes general health and improved oral hygiene.

After Treatment

Proper dental care should be upheld after the treatment to ensure that the results are sustained. For instance, your doctor may recommend the use of inter-dental brushes or toothpicks if food debris easily builds up between the teeth roots. You will also need periodontal re-evaluation assessment after a couple of weeks to confirm the success of the procedure. For more information, contact G P Dental Partners.