The objective of scaling &
root planning is to remove etiologic agents
which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum)
tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic
agents removed by this conventional periodontal
therapy include dental plaque and tartar
(calculus).
These non-surgical procedures
which completely cleanse the periodontium, work
very effectively for individuals suffering from
gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and
moderate/severe periodontal disease.
Reasons
for scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planning can
be used both as a preventative measure and as a
stand-alone treatment. These procedures are
performed as a preventative measure for a
periodontitis sufferer.
Here are some reasons why
these dental procedures may be necessary:
-
Disease prevention –
The oral bacteria which cause
periodontal infections can travel via
the bloodstream to other parts of the
body. Research has shown that lung
infections and heart disease have been
linked to periodontal bacteria. Scaling
and root planing remove bacteria and
halts periodontal disease from
progressing, thus preventing the
bacteria from traveling to other parts
of the body.
-
Tooth protection – When
gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there
is a greater risk of periodontal
disease. As pockets deepen, they tend
to house more colonies of dangerous
bacteria. Eventually, a chronic
inflammatory response by the body begins
to destroy gingival and bone tissue
which may lead to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is the number one
cause of tooth loss in the developed
world.
-
Aesthetic effects –
Scaling and root planing help remove
tartar and plaque from the teeth and
below the gumline. As an added bonus,
if superficial stains are present on the
teeth, they will be removed in the
process of the scaling and root planning
procedure.
-
Better breath – One of
the most common signs of periodontal
disease is halitosis (bad breath). Food
particles and bacteria can cause a
persistent bad odor in the oral cavity
which is alleviated with cleaning
procedures such as scaling and root
planing.
What do
scaling and root planing treatments involve?
Scaling and root planing
treatments are only performed after a thorough
examination of the mouth. The dentist will take
X-rays, conduct visual examinations and make a
diagnosis before recommending or beginning these
procedures.
Depending on the current
condition of the gums, the amount of calculus
(tartar) present, the depth of the pockets and
the progression of the periodontitis, local
anesthetic may be used.
Scaling –
This procedure is usually performed with special
dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic
scaling tool. The scaling tool removes calculus
and plaque from the surface of the crown and
root surfaces. In many cases, the scaling tool
includes an irrigation process that can also be
used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the
gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing – This procedure is a specific treatment which
serves to remove cementum and surface dentin
that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms,
toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is
literally smoothed in order to promote good
healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces
helps bacteria from easily colonizing in future.
Following these deep cleaning
procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with
antibiotics. This will soothe irritation and
help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
During the next appointment,
the dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine
the gums again to see how well the pockets have
healed. If the gum pockets still measure more
than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive
treatments may be recommended.
If you have any concerns
or questions about scaling and root planing, or
periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.