Scaling and root planing is a reasonably standard procedure for treating periodontal disease. However, this procedure can seem invasive at first glance. You may wonder if scaling and root planing are necessary for a dental treatment plan.
Not only is scaling and root planing one of the top treatments for periodontal disease, but it is also considered one of the most effective treatments for the condition besides routine dental hygiene care. Let’s consider what to expect during a scaling and root planing procedure and when the process is needed.
When Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?
Scaling and root planing is used to remove sites of infection under your gum line in the event of periodontitis or gum disease. If bacteria take root at the roots of your teeth, it can be challenging for your body to clear out the infection site. Scaling and root planing not only clean the infection’s location but also smooth down the root of your tooth to make it harder for bacteria to grow in that area in the future.
What Happens During Scaling and Planing?
During root planing and scaling, your dentist will clean your tooth’s root and underside area below the gum line. In some cases, injectable medications are used at the site of the infection to help your body better fight the disease. Then, the root of your tooth is cleaned and smoothed to prevent future illness from setting in. Scaling and planing are the primary treatments for more severe periodontal disease and are effective at preventing the disease from returning should they be paired with proper dental hygiene.
In more severe cases of periodontitis, your dentist may pair scaling and planing with laser treatment, medical applications, and in some cases, gum grafts should your gumline have received significantly from the disease. However, in most cases scaling and planing are effective in treating the disease, as removing the bacteria helps rid your body of the infection.
How Often Is Scaling and Root Planing Needed?
In an ideal world, you should only need scaling, and root planing done once at the site of the infection. However, if you are prone to infections or gum disease, you may need more than one treatment. Usually, persistent periodontal infections are treated with a range of therapies to help your body fight off the condition.
Once your teeth have been scaled and planed, most treatments focus on helping your body fight the infection and preventing future bacterial issues. While scaling and root planing are effective treatments for periodontitis, you’ll want to take extra care in cleaning and caring for your teeth after treatment to avoid another infection.
If you have questions about periodontitis, root planing, scaling, or other dental procedures, call our office at (713) 668-1600. You can also set up an appointment online. Our team at Bright Value Dental is happy to answer any questions you may have and would love to hear from you. Also, if you’re looking for a new dentist in the Houston, Texas area, call us.