Scaling & Root Planing

Gingivitis is a generative disease that left untreated, will cause significant
tooth and gum deterioration. Just the word gingivitis can strike panic in a
patient’s mind. The reality is that the treatment is simple and
performed right in your dentist’s office.
Plaque and tarter that sits on the teeth provides an environment, which allows
bacteria to thrive and multiply. The bacteria cause the gums to become
inflamed and bleed. The condition becomes more noticeable when you brush your
teeth or sometimes when you eat. These are signs of the early stage of
gingivitis. Gingivitis is easily treated by having the hygienist scale and
polish the teeth. If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will progress
and the roots will need a planing. The difference between scaling and root
planing is simple. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth
surface Root planing is the process of smoothening the root surfaces and
removing the infected tooth structure.
As a non-surgical procedure, scaling and planing is performed without any
anesthesia, in the dentist’s office. While the procedure is usually
painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area
for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing is usually broken down
into one section of the mouth per appointment. This allows for adequate
healing time, and reduces the time for each appointment.