Dental Scaling and Root Planning

Scaling and root planing involves deep cleaning of your gum and teeth. Dentists use it to cure gum disease. Dental scaling and root planing involve cleaning the gum line and the root surface. It clears plaque, tartar and bacteria that are not reached by regular brushing. There are instances where one speaks of root planning and scaling. It has the same meaning. Both of them are dentists. Butternut Family Dentistry provides specialized scaling and root planning services as per your need.

Periodontal scaling and root planing is also known as scaling and root planing. Periodontal means that it will aid the gums and bones that support your teeth. The primary purpose is to brush on the root surfaces of your mouth. This will eliminate the buildup of plaque, tartar, and toxins associated with bacteria. This is what leads to swelling of the gums and gum infection. Once cleaned up, your gums will have a chance to heal and become healthy again.

When is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?

Your dentist can recommend scaling and root planing if you exhibit signs of gum disease.

Common symptoms are:

• Bleeding gums- when you brush or floss
• Odorous breathe persistence
• Gums that are inflamed, swollen or sensitive red spots or swollen gums
• Recession of gums off the teeth (gum recession)
• Loose teeth

This treatment may be necessary if you have deep periodontal pockets. These germs grow in between your gums and teeth. They entrap bacteria, plaque and tartar. Gingivitis can be reversed, and one measure of this can be through scaling and root planing. It removes the nasty bacteria, allowing your gums to heal. When done early, it can avert serious damage. However, take care. Other clinics might advise unneeded scaling and root planning. Everybody does not require such treatment. When in doubt, make sure to ask a million questions and get a second opinion.

The procedure of Dental Scaling and Root Planning

Step 1: Initial Check

First, your dentist will examine your gums through a detailed dental exam. They can take X-rays to inspect the bone in the vicinity of your teeth. They will also take measurements of the space between your teeth and gums during these dental checkups. This is referred to as probing. It assists in identifying deep pockets.

Step 2: Dental scaling

Then there is the dental scaling. Plaque and tartar are removed by the dentist both below and above the gum line. They can use a small hand instrument or an ultrasonic scaler. An ultrasonic scaler is applied to clean your teeth via sound wave technology and water.

Step 3: Root Planning

The second one, which follows scaling, is the root planing. This procedure smoothes your tooth roots.

Cleaner roots help the gums reattach and prevent bacterial adhesion.

How Long Does Scaling and Root Planing Take?

This is based on the severity of the gum disease. It also depends on the number of areas or zones (also known as quadrants) that need to be cleaned. Intraoral is divided into four quadrants: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left.

The average number of appointments required is 2- 4. During each visit, your dentist can clean only one or two quadrants. The duration of each session can last approximately 45 to 60 minutes. In the case of mild conditions, less number of visits might be required. When it is a bigger problem, it might take your dentist a longer period to do the cleaning. You can also schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing and reapply if needed.

Deep Scaling and Root Planning Cost

Many people ask, “How much does scaling and root planning cost?” Prices can vary a lot.

• Usually, dentists charge per quadrant. A quadrant is one-fourth of your mouth.
•  The cost per quadrant can range from $100 to $300.
•  If you need a whole-mouth cleaning, it’s costly.

Several things affect the price:

• The dentist’s experience and skills
• Where you live or the region of the country
• How severe your gum disease is

If your case is severe, the dentist may spend more time on it. This can increase the cost. Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of scaling and root planning. However, coverage depends on your insurance policy. You may still need to pay some amount out of pocket. It’s a good idea to check with your dentist and insurance company before treatment. This helps you understand your costs and avoid surprises.

FAQs

Does scaling and root planning hurt?

The primary concern most people have is that the procedure may be painful. Scaling and root planing are typically not painful, as a dentist usually employs a local anesthetic to numb the gums before commencing the procedure. Your gums may be a little sore or tender for a few days after this procedure. This is quite natural and typically resolves within a short time. Over-the-counter pain medicines may be used.

How long does scaling and root planning take?

It depends on the quantity of cleaning that is required and the number of quadrants covered accordingly. The majority of patients require two to four sessions. A visit typically lasts around 45 to 60 minutes. Depending on the condition of your gums and the extent of the necessary cleaning, the dentist will determine a schedule.

How long does scaling and root planning take?

Yes. A general dentist can perform scaling and root planing. Through training, they learn to carry out this procedure. However, if your gum disease is severe or complicated, your dentist can refer you to a periodontist. A periodontist is a specialist in dentistry that deals with the treatment of gum disease and loss of teeth and bones.