Scaling and Root Planing: The Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning

Scaling and Root Planing

If you’ve been to the dentist lately, then chances are you’ve heard of scaling and root planing, also known as deep teeth cleaning. This process involves using special tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that have built up on your teeth over time. While it may seem like any other routine dental procedure, this particular method has some unique benefits that can help maintain your oral health. Keep reading to learn more about what scaling and root planing can do for you and why it’s important to get regular cleanings.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep teeth cleaning procedure that removes tartar, plaque, and bacteria from below the gum line. This helps to prevent periodontal disease and tooth loss. Scaling and root planing can be done in one or more visits, depending on the severity of the buildup.

Scaling and Root Planing

Source – American Dental Association

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Prevents gum disease

Gum disease is a common dental problem that can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums if left untreated. Scaling and root planing can prevent gum disease by removing the bacteria and plaque that cause it. By keeping your gums healthy, you can prevent tooth loss and other dental problems in the future.

Reduces inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s response to infection or injury. When bacteria and plaque build up below the gum line, it can cause inflammation, which can lead to gum disease. Scaling and root planing can reduce inflammation by removing the bacteria and plaque, which can improve the overall health of your gums.

Prevents tooth loss

If left untreated, gum disease can cause your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. Scaling and root planing can prevent tooth loss by removing the bacteria and plaque that cause gum disease. By keeping your gums healthy, you can preserve your teeth and avoid the need for expensive dental procedures in the future.

Improves overall health

Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Poor oral health can lead to a host of other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By keeping your teeth and gums healthy with regular deep cleanings, you can reduce your risk of these and other health problems.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Patients will be asked to lie down on their back in a dental chair. They may be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around their teeth. A device called a scaler will be used to remove tartar (calculus) from the surface of the teeth and below the gumline. The roots of the teeth will also be cleaned (planed) to help remove any bacteria that are present. The procedure can take 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of teeth that need to be treated. Patients may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but this can be minimized with the use of a local anesthetic.

How Often Should You Get Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep teeth cleaning procedure that is recommended for patients who have gum disease. The frequency of scaling and root planing depends on the severity of the gum disease. For patients with mild to moderate gum disease, scaling and root planing should be performed every three to four months. For patients with severe gum disease, scaling and root planing should be performed every month.

Conclusion

In conclusion, scaling and root planing can be an effective way to remove hard-to-reach plaque and bacteria buildup from your teeth. Not only does this procedure help prevent cavities, gum disease and bad breath, but it also helps ensure that your smile is healthy for years to come. If you find yourself dealing with any of the symptoms mentioned above, it would be wise to visit a dentist experienced in scaling and root planing so they can give you the best possible treatment.

What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep teeth cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This helps to improve oral health and prevent gum disease.

How often does scaling and root planing need to be done?

Scaling and root planing is typically done every 3-4 months for people with good oral hygiene. People with poor oral hygiene may need to have the procedure done more often.

What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?

There are many benefits of scaling and root planing, including improved oral health, fresher breath, and reduced risk of gum disease.

Scaling and Root Planing: The Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning