Root Planing and Scaling for Gum Disease

Root planing and scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat Reference gum disease Opens New Window before it becomes severe. Root planing and scaling cleans between the gums and the teeth down to the Reference roots Opens New Window. Your dentist may need to use a Reference local anesthetic Opens New Window to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth.

Some dentists and dental hygienists will use an ultrasonic tool for the planing and scaling. This tool is not as uncomfortable as a standard scraping tool, but not all cleanings require this type of tool.

Your dentist may place Reference antibiotic Opens New Window fibers into the pockets between your teeth and gums. The Reference antibiotic will help speed healing and prevent infection. The dentist will remove the fibers about 1 week after the procedure.

If anesthesia is used, your lips and gums may remain numb for a few hours. Planing and scaling causes little or no discomfort.

Root planing and scaling is done when gums have either started to pull away from the teeth or the roots of the teeth have hard mineral deposits (tartar) on them.

If you maintain good dental care after the procedure, the progression of gum disease should stop. And your gums will heal and become firm and pink again.

Root planing and scaling can introduce harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. Gum tissue is also at risk of infection. You may need to take antibiotics before and after surgery if you have a condition that puts you at high risk for a severe infection or if infections are particularly dangerous for you. You may need to take antibiotics if you:

• Have certain heart problems that make it dangerous for you to get a heart infection called Reference endocarditis Opens New Window.
• Have an Reference impaired immune system Opens New Window.
• Had recent major surgeries or have man-made body parts, such as an artificial hip or heart valve.

• Root planing and scaling is a simple procedure that can work very well to stop gum disease.
• Brush and floss regularly afterward. Without proper dental care, your gum disease may progress.
• To promote healing, stop all use of tobacco. Smoking or using spit tobacco reduces your ability to fight infection of your gums and delays healing. For more information, see the topic Reference Quitting Smoking.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.