What are Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing? A Comprehensive Guide

Periodontal scaling and root planing are integral to dental care that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. This comprehensive guide will explain what periodontal scaling and root planing are, why they are essential, and how they are done.

Periodontal scaling and root planing help to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. This process is necessary for people with periodontal disease to prevent further damage to the gums and other tissues surrounding the teeth.

Without periodontal scaling, root planing, or other periodontal therapy, the gums can become infected, and the teeth can become loose and eventually fall out.

This guide will provide a comprehensive understanding of what periodontal scaling and root planing are, how they are done, and how they can help improve oral health.

What are Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?

Periodontal scaling and root planing are two of the most important components of the periodontal therapy treatment plan. It is the process of removing plaque, calculus, and other debris around the teeth. It is also used to smoothen the rough edges of the teeth below the gum line.

The plaque and tartar below the gum line can cause damage to the tissues that support your teeth and gums. This can lead to periodontal disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.

The dentist or dental hygienist does the periodontal scaling and root planing procedure. It is done using special instruments placed between the teeth and below the gum line. The gums are then held taut to allow thorough cleaning of the teeth and below the gum line.

Benefits of Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Periodontal scaling and root planing help reduce gum inflammation and minimize the potential for gingivitis and periodontitis.

To summarize, periodontal scaling and root planing can help improve your oral health by:

• Removing plaque and tartar from the teeth below the gum line
• Reducing gum inflammation
• Preventing gingivitis
• Preventing periodontitis
• Keeping teeth healthy
• Maintaining proper oral hygiene
• Preventing tooth loss

What to Expect During Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

If you receive periodontal scaling and root planing, you will be asked to sit in the dental chair with your mouth open. The dental hygienist will then place a rubber shield around your teeth to keep them from being damaged as they are being cleaned.

The hygienist will then use various tools to scrape and remove the plaque, calculus, and bacteria that have built up below the gum line. The procedure may be uncomfortable and cause bleeding in some cases.

The hygienist will use water to flush away the debris removed during the scaling and root planing process. The water may be slightly warm or at room temperature.

The hygienist may also use a particular solution to help remove the debris from your teeth and below the gum line. The solution may contain chemicals like sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide.

What Happens After Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?

After periodontal scaling and root planing, the hygienist will use an instrument to help rinse the area and apply a soothing solution to prevent irritation. They may also apply a soft dressing over the gums to help reduce inflammation and provide a barrier between the gum area and the rest of the mouth.

You should follow the instructions of your dental team and follow the post-procedure directions to help prevent any complications from occurring.

Your dentist may also advise you to take antibiotics or other medications to help prevent infection in the affected area.

Following the post-procedure directions after periodontal scaling and root planing is essential to help prevent complications and promote healing.

Risks and Complications of Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Periodontal scaling and root planing are generally safe procedures when performed as part of a dental cleaning. However, there is a small risk of complications that can occur. Complications related to periodontal scaling and root planing may include:

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Infection
• Tooth injury

Regular periodontal scaling and root planing can help prevent these complications from occurring. It is important to follow the post-procedure directions to promote healing and help reduce the risk of complications. It is also essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home to help prevent plaque and tartar buildup and to help promote oral health.

How to Care for Your Teeth After Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Periodontal scaling and root planing help to improve oral health by removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. Following periodontal scaling and root planing, it is important to practice good oral hygiene at home.

This includes brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings. You can also use special mouthwash to improve oral hygiene and prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Teeth undergoing periodontal scaling and root planing are more sensitive than usual. It is essential to take special care of teeth that have undergone this procedure to prevent further damage. Following the post-procedure directions given by your dental team can help you do this.

Conclusion

Periodontal scaling and root planing are essential to dental care that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. This procedure uses special instruments placed between the teeth and below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth.

It also helps to reduce gum inflammation, prevent gingivitis, and prevent periodontitis. Periodontal scaling and root planing can help keep teeth healthy, maintain proper oral hygiene, and prevent tooth loss.

Visit Your Dentist at Lovett Dental Now!

We are committed to helping you achieve your best smile by utilizing modern dental techniques, the latest technology, and world-class patient care. We have assembled a team of board-certified specialists covering a broad range of dentistry services.

Doctors specializing in the most advanced dental procedures to achieve complete smile makeovers; specialists utilizing dental implants to restore smiles; highly trained pediatric dentists and orthodontists treating the unique needs of children

Our experienced professionals are ready to take care of your dental needs. You’ll find us throughout the greater Houston area, including Beaumont and Corpus Christi, under a few names, including Lovett, Splendid, Haven Dentistry, and Our Children’s Dentist & Orthodontist.

When you visit your dentist at Lovett Dental, you can enjoy your treats without worry. We offer a wide range of services to help you keep your teeth healthy, including teeth cleanings, check-ups, and dental exams.

We also specialize in cosmetic dentistry, offering procedures such as composite fillings, veneers, and crowns to help you look and feel your best. If you have questions about our services or treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you soon!