Gum Treatment

Scaling and root planing

The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling and root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove dental plaque and tartar (or calculus) which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.

A deep cleaning (aka scaling and root planing)is different than a routine cleaning (aka prophylaxis).

A routine cleaning focuses on preventative dental care and the maintence of healthy teeth and oral tissues by the removal of calculus, plaque, and common stains. Performed twice a year by a dental hygenist, it is usually completed in one appointment.

A deep cleaning is a therapeutic procedure designed to help avoid periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of calculus, plaque, and stain on the crowns and root surfaces of teeth. It can begin as localized gingival inflammation and progress to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. Left untreated, this disease progresses to the ultimate loss of teeth.

In periodontal disease, gingival tissue may detatch (pull away) from teeth, and periodontal pockets form. Scaling and root planing is intended to provide a healthy tooth environment in which tissues re-adapt to normal tooth surfaces.