During a dentist visit, you are informed that you need scaling or root planing, and in the back of your mind you may be wondering exactly what that will require. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! 

These procedures tackle gum disease and, while often grouped together, serve slightly different purposes. 

If you are sick of bleeding or sore gums then here is everything you need to know about the differences between root planing and scaling. 

What Is Root Planing?

Root planing is the process of smoothing out the surface of the tooth’s roots to limit plaque and tartar buildup. This also improves the rate of gum tissue healing. Ultimately, it is a dental hygiene service and treatment, and part of a deep cleaning procedure for gum disease.

What Is the Difference Between Scaling and Root Planing?

While root planing smooths over the rough edges of the root, root scaling is the process of removing the plaque and tartar buildup that is already present in the mouth. During root scaling, the buildup will be removed along and under the gum line, right down to the root of the tooth.

Plaque and tartar are the enemies of the teeth, gums, and mouth, which is mostly preventable with optimal dental health. Plaque is a thin, sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque that brushing has failed to remove.

Once tartar is present in your mouth, it requires professional cleaning to remove.  

Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?

If you are struggling to remove plaque from your mouth or the plaque has hardened into tartar, then yes, you do need root planing and scaling to clean your teeth properly and to help prevent or treat early gum disease.

Left untreated the buildup of plaque and/or tartar can cause the gums to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth. This leaves pockets where more plaque can be deposited which can ultimately cause tooth or bone loss.

If you are experiencing plaque build-up,  poor oral health,  and symptoms associated with gum disease, take action! As much as 47.2% of adults over 30 are affected by gum disease according to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association.

What to Expect During the Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Scaling and root planing is a two-part deep cleaning teeth procedure. It is not a surgical procedure, but may require a local anesthetic depending on the individual patient. The scaling will happen first to remove the buildup, followed by root planing to smooth down the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the root of the tooth, and close the pockets.

After the procedure, you may have some tooth and gum sensitivity and some mild pain. Your periodontist may prescribe a mouthwash and pain medication for your comfort and to keep your mouth as clean as possible post-procedure to prevent infection.

Importantly, scaling and root planing may take more than one visit to your dental facility to complete.

Call the Office of Barry P. Levin DMD for All Your Scaling and Root Planing Needs! 

Dr. Levin is a board-certified periodontist with almost 30 years of experience. For scaling and root planing in Jenkintown, Abington, Elkins Park, Cheltenham, Glenside, Willow Grove, Wyncote, and surrounding areas, contact us today!