Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Hardened plaque can’t be brushed away, and a deep clean is necessary to reverse periodontal disease and ensure optimal dental health.

Scaling & root planing explained

Periodontal scaling and root planing are procedures used to treat periodontal disease. Commonly referred to as a “deep cleaning,” this procedure involves the careful removal of hardened plaque near the gum line, where harmful bacteria can grow and cause damage to both the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. The treatment starts with scaling, during which special instruments are used to scrape build-up away from the teeth and gums. Root planing follows, which is a process of smoothing the surface of the tooth’s root in order to prevent bacteria from attaching there in the future. Finally, an antibiotic is administered to ensure that no bacteria remains at the treatment site. Scaling and root planing clean hardened plaque from the teeth and restore a healthy smile.

What is scaling?

A dental hygienist uses a specialized scaling tool to carefully remove tartar that has built up around the gum line. The scaling tool chips off the tartar deposits, restoring the teeth to a clean state. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during this process, however a local anesthetic can be used if needed. Deep cleaning is a similar process that targets the root of the tooth underneath the gums. A dental hygienist will gently push aside gum tissue to thoroughly remove any tartar from the roots, leaving them smooth and clean. In cases of extensive buildup, the patient may have to complete the full deep clean in stages.

What should I expect during scaling and root planing?

If you require scaling and root planing, you’ll first be made comfortable – perhaps using a local anesthetic. You should feel little or no discomfort other than the sensation of the cleaning tools scraping away hardened plaque. Procedure lengths vary according to the extent of the disease and the areas it is located within the mouth. If your periodontal disease is widespread, you may need to spread out your treatment into multiple visits.

Scaling & root planing aftercare

You’ll need to follow all instructions for antibiotic usage following your treatment. You’ll also be advised to avoid certain habits that can cause recurrence of periodontal disease in the future.
It is normal to experience some bleeding and discomfort around the teeth for a few days after the procedure. Many patients experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures afterward, but this goes away with time.

To prevent plaque from building up along your gums, it is important to brush twice a day and floss nightly. Soft/ultra-soft or electric toothbrushes are very effective. Smoking increases the chances of recurring periodontal disease and should be avoided. Regular dental checkups are important to maintain oral health.

Is scaling & root planing right for me?

A dental expert has to assess if scaling and root planing are appropriate for your teeth. Below are some common reasons that scaling and root planing are recommended:

You have chronic bad breath
Your gums are swollen or bleeding
Chewing food hurts
Teeth are sensitive
You have loose teeth

Healthy, good-looking teeth

After a scaling and root planing procedure, your gums and teeth will be much healthier. After you heal, you can expect better breath, less tooth sensitivity, no bleeding gums, and no discomfort while eating. If you had deep gum pockets around your teeth, these will heal and return to average size.

In addition to improved health, your teeth will look nicer, with no yellow plaque or tartar stains to worry about. You’ll be able to smile with confidence. Your improved dental health will also have a positive impact on your overall health.

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Healthy, good-looking teeth

After a scaling and root planing procedure, your gums and teeth will be much healthier. After you heal, you can expect better breath, less tooth sensitivity, no bleeding gums, and no discomfort while eating. After a scaling and root planing procedure, your gums and teeth will be much healthier.

After you heal, you can expect better breath, less tooth sensitivity, no bleeding gums, and no discomfort while eating. If you had deep gum pockets around your teeth, these will heal and return to average size.

Advanced periodontal disease

For those who have advanced cases of periodontal disease, further steps may be necessary. Listed below are two treatments for those with severe periodontal disease.

Grafting

Grafting - This procedure covers exposed tooth root surfaces. There are three major types: connective-tissue graft, free gingival graft, and a pedicle graft.

Flap surgery

Flap surgery repairs bone damage caused by gum disease in addition to cleaning the roots of the teeth. To do this, a flap of gum tissue needs to be temporarily peeled back; it is stitched back into place at the end of the procedure.