If you have a serious gum disease called periodontitis, you might need a deep cleaning treatment called tooth scaling and root planing. These treatments remove hardened tartar from your teeth and gums, helping to reduce inflammation. By cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly, these procedures can protect your smile and prevent damage to your teeth, gums, and bone.
What is Scaling?
Scaling is a routine dental procedure designed to remove dental plaque and tartar (calculus) from tooth surfaces. Here’s how it’s done:
- Purpose: To clean above and below the gumline, preventing gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Procedure: Performed using manual scalers or ultrasonic instruments, which efficiently remove plaque and tartar without damaging the tooth enamel.
- Indications: Recommended for visible tartar, frequent gum bleeding, or as a preventive measure during regular dental check-ups.
What is Root Planing?
Root planing is a deeper cleaning procedure, especially crucial when gums have started pulling away from the teeth, forming “pockets” that harbor harmful bacteria.
- Purpose: To smooth the roots of the teeth, helping gums reattach to the tooth surface.
- Procedure: Involves cleaning the root surfaces to remove plaque and tartar from deep periodontal pockets.
- Indications: Necessary for patients with moderate to advanced periodontal disease, evidenced by deep pockets and gum recession.
Key Differences Between Root Planing and Scaling
The following table highlights the main differences between these two procedures:
| Aspect | Scaling | Root Planing |
| Objective | Removes plaque and tartar from tooth and gum surface. | Smooths tooth roots and removes deep tartar deposits. |
| Depth | Cleans primarily above the gumline. | Extends below the gumline into periodontal pockets. |
| Anesthesia | Rarely requires anesthesia. | May require local anesthesia due to the depth of cleaning. |
| Frequency | Can be part of regular dental visits. | Often requires multiple visits to complete |
The Importance of Both Procedures for Oral Health
Both procedures are crucial in preventing the progression of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. Regular scaling keeps tartar and plaque at bay, while root planing is essential for restoring and maintaining healthy gums.
When Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
You may need scaling and root planing if you experience any of the following:
- Gum inflammation – If your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily, it could be a sign of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), indicating the need for a deeper clean than regular brushing and flossing.
- Persistent bad breath – Ongoing bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by bacteria trapped below the gumline, which scaling and root planing can help remove.
- Receding gums – If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets, these pockets can harbor bacteria, and deep cleaning is essential to prevent further gum recession.
- Bone loss or loose teeth – Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss and loose teeth, which require immediate treatment through scaling and root planing to stop the progression.
- Chronic periodontitis – If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic periodontitis, your dentist may recommend this procedure as part of an overall treatment plan.
Also Read: Gingival Abscess vs Periodontal Abscess: What’s the Difference?
How Often Should I Schedule Scaling and Root Planing?
The number of appointments for scaling and planing depends on the severity of the periodontitis and the dentist’s approach. Some dentists may treat one side of the mouth per visit, requiring two visits in total, while others might treat each quadrant in separate visits, totaling four appointments.
How painful is scaling and root planing?
Deep cleaning can cause some discomfort, but the level of pain varies from person to person. Dentists typically use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and teeth, minimizing pain during the procedure. While you may feel some pressure, sharp pain is uncommon. After the procedure, it’s normal to experience soreness, tenderness, and slight swelling in the gums for a few days, along with sensitivity to hot or cold foods.
However, any discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and by following your dentist’s aftercare instructions. Most people find that the temporary discomfort is well worth the relief from gum inflammation and the improvement in their overall oral health.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following scaling and root planing, adopt these practices for optimal recovery and prevention:
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain regular brushing, flossing, and use of antiseptic mouthwash.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule follow-up cleanings to monitor gum health and prevent recurrence.
- Lifestyle Changes: Consider quitting smoking and improving dietary habits for better oral health.
Understanding the differences between scaling and root planing is key to comprehensive oral health care. These treatments are vital for preventing and managing gum disease. For accurate diagnosis and professional care, it’s essential to consult with dental specialists. If you’re in Scarborough or Richmond Hill, Ontario, BK Dental offers expert periodontal treatment. Contact us 416-490-1264 to schedule your appointment and take a proactive step towards a healthier smile.
