Scaling and Root Planing
If plaque is not removed, it will cause gums to bleed and can develop into a hard substance known as tartar. As plaque and tartar build up, it destroys the gum and bone that anchor teeth. When too much gum and bone is destroyed, the tooth cannot be held into place and will need to be removed.
Scaling and root planing is a two-part deep-cleaning, non-surgical procedure used to remove tartar build-up and prevent continued bone loss. Scaling is the portion of treatment where plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away. Planing smooths rough spots on the tooth root. Smoothing the rough spots removes bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
We generally provide scaling and root planing under local anesthesia. We later re-evaluate your periodontal condition to determine if scaling and root planing was sufficient treatment, or if you will require additional treatment from a periodontal specialist. Other periodontal procedures include grafting, flap and osseous surgery. Implant placement and crown lengthening procedures will be referred to a properly trained periodontist.