This is usually the first treatment procedure that will be done for you in our office. It is done to remove the bacterial plaque and debris that accumulate on the roots of your teeth especially in the areas where you have deep pockets. This procedure also smoothes out the surface of the root to make it harder for new bacteria and debris to attach to it. Healing cannot begin to take place in these pockets until the root surfaces are clean and smooth and the pockets are free of debris.
Periodontal scaling and root planing will not grow new bone back, but it will make your gum tissues healthier and help them become pinker and firmer. This will in turn reduce the pocket depth somewhat.
Our hygienists are highly experienced in removing these deep deposits and planing roots. Because this is a periodontal office, our emphasis is on this procedure and it is what our hygienists do best. It is usually a continuation of the scaling your dentist has already done.
If your gum tissues or teeth are sensitive, we can do this procedure with local anaesthetic (freezing). Please let us know if this is the case.
Your gums may be tender for a day or so after scaling and root planing. If they are, you should rinse with warm salt water 3 to 4 times a day for several days. If the tenderness persists, please call us.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain your oral home care after scaling and root planing in order to keep the bacterial plaque and debris from getting back into the remaining pockets.
