Root planning and scaling, also commonly referred to as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical periodontal therapy used to treat gum disease and maintain gum health as told by Memphis, TN dentist. This article discusses root planning and scaling, its procedure, why it is essential for preventing gingival disease progression, and its significance in optimal oral health.
Root planning and scaling refer to a deep cleaning procedure that is performed by dental professionals to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth’s surfaces and roots below the gum line. The procedure is commonly recommended for individuals affected by gingival disease, specifically those with stages ranging between early to moderate disease.
The Procedure
Dental professionals perform root scaling and check the teeth and gum with a periodontal probe for a comprehensive examination to determine and measure the dental periodontal pockets. Dental pocket is a space between the teeth, and the gum. The dentist or hygienist will use specialized instruments, usually called scalers and curettes, to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the teeth’s surfaces and roots located below the gumline. This procedure ensures the removal of the infection’s source adequately and prevents bacteria and re-infection from occurring again.
Following the treatment of root cleaning, dental professionals smooth the surface of roots and gums by the process of root planning. Rough areas are smoothened which prevent new bacterial r attachment and growth. Additionally, follow-up visits for patients who have undergone root planing and scaling may be required to determine the gum healing process and the treatment’s effectiveness. Dentists or hygienists may offer maintenance advice to the patients.
Benefits of Root Planing and Scaling
Root planning and scaling have various benefits for patients with gingival disease. These include:
- Elimination of the disease-producing bacteria
- Root scaling and planing help reduce dental periodontal pockets, making it appropriate and easy for patients to execute proper oral hygiene and, thus, preventing additional possible damage to gum and adjacent teeth structures.
- By preventing additional alveolar bone damage and loss and addressing gingival disease in its early stage, root planing and scaling contribute to the prevention of losing teeth.
Root planning and scaling is a suitable non-surgical treatment procedure for patients with gingival disease and helps restore gum and prevents its progression. In case you experience red, swollen, bleeding gums or have been diagnosed with gingival disease, consult your specialist for guidance on whether root planing and scaling is the best remedy for you. Hence, a lifelong wealthy smile can be achieved with adequate treatment.
