Why Root Planing And Scaling Is So Important

There are many dental care terms people have heard before and have a solid understanding about. For instance, most people would be able to explain what a cavity is, at least in basic terms. A fair amount of people could probably also explain gum disease or gum recession. As for root planing and scaling, that’s a term you’ve probably heard but may be in the dark about.

The team here at our Englewood periodontics and advanced dental care center would like to cover the basics of root planing and scaling so you know what it is and why it’s crucial for lasting dental health.

What Is Root Planing And Scaling?

Also known as deep cleaning, root planing and scaling is the practice of removing plaque and tartar buildup where the gums meet the tooth structure. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria that naturally occurs in the mouth, and tartar is a hardened form of this plaque. The removal of these substances helps prevent periodontal disease, gum recession, and tooth decay forming beneath the gumline.

This scraping and cleaning of the teeth is far more involved than the routine process that occurs during a regular dental visit.

How Does Root Planing And Scaling Work?

Root planing and scaling are thought of as one procedure, yet they are actually two separate parts of the deep cleaning process.

• Root Scaling – Scaling refers to the removal of tartar and plaque from around the tooth structure, both above and below the gumline.
• Root Planing – Planing refers to the smoothing out of tooth structure that may be affected by tartar and plaque.

Thanks to both processes performed in tandem, periodontal health and overall dental wellness can be significantly enhanced.

How Often Should I Undergo Root Planing And Scaling?

There’s generally no hard or fast rule regarding root planing and scaling schedules. Ideally, patients will have undergone a deep cleaning and will not require an additional one thanks to proper dental hygiene and at-home maintenance afterward. Yet even regular brushing and flossing may not guarantee a healthy smile.

It’s best to continue regular dental visits, allowing your dentist to clean regularly and make adjustments as needed with regard to your dental health needs.

What To Expect During Root Planing And Scaling

During root planing and scaling, local anesthetic is administered to reduce discomfort in the mouth. Your dentist will work on just half of the mouth or a quadrant of the mouth at a time during a deep cleaning session. The reason for this is to avoid numbing the entire mouth with anesthetic. This means less inconvenience after the procedure for patients.

Patients will sit back as the dentist and a hygienist carefully clean the teeth and ensure proper wellness overall.

Am I Due For A Deep Cleaning?

If you have not been to the dentist for a long while, chances are that a deep cleaning may be in your near future. Be sure to meet with a dentist o find out what your current dental care challenges are and to ensure that these problems are treated sooner rather than later. Early treatment and prevention are always the best options for a smile that lasts.

Contact Our Dental Care Experts Today

For more information about your dental care options and how we can help you have a healthy and beautiful smile, be sure to contact our advanced dental care center today. The team here at our practice look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.