Root Planning & Scaling
Root Planing and Scaling for Gum Disease
Root planing and scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat gum decease before it becomes severe. Root planing and scaling cleans between the gums and the teeth down to the roots. Your hygienist may need to use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth during the process.
Some dentists and dental hygienists will use an ultrasonic tool for the planing and scaling. This tool is not as uncomfortable as a standard scraping tool, but not all cleanings require this type of tool.
What To Expect After Treatment
If anesthesia is used, your lips and gums may remain numb for a few hours. Planing and scaling causes little or no discomfort.
Why It Is Done
Root planing and scaling is done when gums have either started to pull away from the teeth or the roots of the teeth have hard mineral deposits (tartar) on them.
How Well It Works
If you maintain good dental care after the procedure and continue with Periodontal Maintenance, the progression of gum disease should stop. And your gums will heal and become firm and pink again.