Scaling and root planning is a deep cleaning procedure designed to treat active periodontal disease, a condition that affects the gums and surrounding tissues. When you have periodontal disease, routine cleanings are often not enough because they typically address only the areas of the tooth that are visible above the gumline. In contrast, scaling and root planning targets the areas below the gumline, where plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins can accumulate, causing infection and gum recession.
At McGue Dental Care, our primary goal during scaling and root planning is to eliminate the sources of infection, providing you with a healthier mouth and gums. The procedure begins with the application of a local anesthetic to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. Our team understands that some patients may feel anxious about the procedure, so we take extra care to make sure you are relaxed and well-cared-for before we begin.
During the procedure, we use special instruments designed to remove plaque and tartar that have built up beneath the gumline. The removal of plaque and tartar is critical because these substances harbor harmful bacteria that can lead to the further progression of periodontal disease. Once we have cleaned the tooth surfaces, we proceed with root planning. This step involves smoothing the roots of your teeth to remove any remaining toxins and promote the reattachment of the gum tissue to the tooth surface. This helps to heal the infected gums and can ultimately reduce the size of the pockets between your gums and teeth, making it harder for bacteria to accumulate in the future.
The extent of the scaling and root planning procedure depends on the severity of your periodontal disease. If you have only a few areas of infection, we may focus treatment on those specific teeth. However, if the infection is more widespread, we may divide the treatment into multiple appointments, addressing one or two sections of your mouth at a time. This approach ensures that we are thorough and precise in treating each area, while also minimizing discomfort for you.
In some cases, after completing the scaling and root planning procedure, we may apply fluoride or a medicated treatment to further support the healing of the gums. These additional treatments can help to reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and promote faster recovery.
Once the procedure is complete, your gums will have the opportunity to heal, tightening around the teeth and helping to restore a healthy, confident smile. Scaling and root planning not only removes the infection but also encourages the healing of the gum tissues, preventing further damage and the need for more invasive treatments. By eliminating the infection and improving gum health, this procedure can be the key to restoring your oral health and preventing the progression of periodontal disease.
At McGue Dental Care, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for your periodontal needs. Our team will work with you to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible, giving you the tools and support you need to maintain a healthy smile for years to come.