Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to treat periodontal disease.  As the most common method for treating periodontal disease, the purpose of scaling and root planing is to eliminate the etiologic agents, such as plaque and tartar, which cause inflammation of the gum tissue and the surrounding bone. 

Scaling and root planing involves the complete cleansing of the periodontium and is a highly effective treatment when periodontal disease is mild, moderate or in its early stages.  In more severe cases, scaling and root planing may be used in conjunction with surgical treatment methods.

Reasons for the Procedure

Scaling and root planing can be used to prevent periodontal disease and to treat the condition when it is already present.  The following are some examples of reasons why scaling and root planing may be necessary:

• Disease prevention: The bacteria that give rise to periodontal infections, while initially found in the mouth, can travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body, leading to serious diseases such as lung infections and heart disease.  By removing such bacteria through scaling and root planing, the progression of periodontal disease and the spreading of bacteria can be prevented.

• Tooth protection: When gum pockets deepen, the likelihood that they will harbor colonies of harmful bacteria increases.  As such colonies grow, the body initiates a chronic inflammatory response that destroys gingival and bone tissue.  This, in turn, can lead to tooth loss.  In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world.

• Aesthetic effects: While removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gum line, scaling and root planing will also remove superficial stains, resulting in whiter, brighter teeth.

• Eliminating bad breath: Halitosis or bad breath is a common symptom of periodontal disease and can cause significant distress or embarrassment for patients.  By removing food debris and bacteria, scaling and root planing can reduce or eliminate bad odors for better breath.

The Procedure

Depending on a patient's specific circumstances and the progression of the periodontal infection, a local anaesthetic may be used during scaling and root planing.

Scaling involves the use of specialized dental instruments such as ultrasonic scaling tools and results in the removal of calculus and plaque.  Some scaling tools are also designed to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help control bacteria.

Root planing is a procedure used to remove cementum and surface dentin, which can be embedded with toxins and harmful microorganisms.  By smoothing the root of the tooth, bacteria will have difficulty re-colonizing in the area and effective healing will therefore be promoted.

After the deep cleaning procedures of scaling and root planing are complete, antibiotics may be used to treat the gum pockets in order to reduce irritation and to speed up the healing process.  During the patient's follow-up appointment, the condition of the gums and the progression of the healing process will be assessed.  In some cases, additional treatment methods may be recommended.

If you have any concerns or questions about scaling and root planing, or periodontal disease, please ask Brentwood Dentist Cameron Torabi.