Scaling, usually done by the dental hygienist, is a process that removes hardened plaque and tartar from your teeth. It is a common cleaning procedure that helps prevent periodontal disease which can sometimes lead to tooth loss.
During your cleaning, the hygienist will use designated tools to gently remove, or scale, plaque and tartar by scraping the surfaces of your teeth that have been affected.
Because plaque is more likely to rough surfaces, root planing involves removing any infected or damage tooth particals. Root planing is a much deeper cleaning than a regular cleaning, and cleans bacteria below the root, a local anesthesia may be used to help alleviate any discomfort.
While scaling and root planing are typically used to combat gum disease, root planing may also be used to prepare a tooth for other treatments, as well.
If you have questions about scaling and root planing, please contact us today.