Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment used to remove plaque and calculus from tooth surfaces, including areas below the gumline, and to smooth affected root surfaces when clinically appropriate. It is generally considered when periodontal treatment in Langley requires more than routine preventive cleaning.
How Is Scaling and Root Planing Different From a Regular Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning focuses primarily on maintaining oral health and removing plaque and calculus.
Periodontal treatment is different because it addresses disease affecting the gums and supporting tissues.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan currently lists cleaning under the gumline and non-surgical gum-disease management among covered periodontal services when applicable under plan rules.
Who Might Need Scaling and Root Planing?
A dentist or dental hygienist may recommend periodontal treatment when there are signs such as:
- gum inflammation
- deeper periodontal pockets
- significant calculus buildup
- bleeding gums
- persistent gum problems
- evidence of periodontal disease
Not every patient with bleeding gums requires scaling and root planing. The treatment should be based on an assessment.
What Happens During the Treatment?
Treatment may involve:
- Examination of the gums
- Measurement of periodontal pockets
- Identification of calculus and plaque
- Removal of deposits above and below the gumline
- Cleaning of affected root surfaces
- Home-care instructions
- Follow-up assessment when appropriate
The exact approach depends on the extent and location of periodontal disease.
Does Scaling and Root Planing Hurt?
Patients can experience sensitivity or discomfort, especially when deeper areas below the gums need treatment.
Your dental team can discuss comfort measures before treatment. Local anesthesia may be considered depending on the extent of treatment and patient needs.
Why Is Periodontal Treatment Important?
Gum disease affects tissues supporting the teeth. Without appropriate management, periodontal disease can progress.
Treatment is intended to control the disease and help maintain the health of the gums and supporting structures.
What Happens After Scaling and Root Planing?
After treatment, ongoing maintenance becomes important.
Your dentist may recommend:
- improved brushing
- daily interdental cleaning
- periodontal maintenance visits
- monitoring of gum health
- additional treatment when required
Periodontal care is generally a continuing process rather than a single appointment.
FAQs
Is scaling and root planing the same as a dental cleaning?
No. Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment that can involve cleaning below the gumline and treating affected root surfaces.
How do I know if I need it?
A dental professional must evaluate your gums, periodontal pockets and deposits before recommending treatment.
Can bleeding gums mean I need deep cleaning?
Bleeding can be a sign of gum inflammation or disease, but it does not automatically mean scaling and root planing is required.
Is periodontal treatment covered by CDCP?
The CDCP includes several periodontal services, including cleaning under the gumline and non-surgical gum disease management, subject to the plan’s rules and eligibility requirements.
Will I need periodontal maintenance afterward?
Some patients with periodontal disease need ongoing maintenance to monitor and manage their gum health.
How often should periodontal treatment be performed?
There is no universal schedule. Follow-up depends on your periodontal condition and response to treatment.
Conclusion
Scaling and root planing is different from a routine cleaning because it is directed toward periodontal disease and can involve cleaning areas beneath the gumline.
If you have persistent bleeding, gum inflammation or concerns about gum health, a dentist in Langley can assess your gums and determine what level of care is appropriate.