Our Services / Scaling & Root Planing

What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing treats gum disease. It’s an outpatient procedure that removes dental calculus –– a tough buildup of bacteria, food particles, and saliva –– from beneath your gums and the base of your teeth.

Scaling and root planing typically takes more than one appointment. To ensure your comfort, Franklin Square Dental administers local anesthesia prior to treatment.  

Why would someone need scaling and root planing?

Your Franklin Square Dental provider might recommend scaling and root planing if you have gum disease or an infection of the gum tissue. Without intervention and treatment, gum disease causes your gums to become swollen and pull away from your teeth. That increases the risk of bone and tissue loss, tooth loss, and moving teeth.

Scaling and root planing prevents gum disease from getting worse, instantly improving your oral health. 

What does scaling and root planing involve?

Before recommending scaling and root planing, your Franklin Square Dental provider conducts an oral exam and takes digital X-rays. If you have gum disease, your provider administers a local anesthetic and carefully removes the plaque from your teeth and any large pockets between your teeth and gums.

Next, your provider does the root planing. They use a special scaling tool to smooth out the base of your teeth, making it easier for your gums to reattach to them. 

If you have a moderate or serious infection, your provider might also recommend antibiotic therapy to help your mouth heal. You might also need to return to Franklin Square Dental a week or two later for a second scaling and root planing. 

What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is considered one of the most effective treatments for gum disease. It has a proven record of success and can significantly reduce your risk of bone, tooth, and tissue loss associated with periodontitis (chronic gum disease).

What happens after scaling and root planing?

After scaling and root planing, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene to prevent the infection from recurring. Franklin Square Dental recommends brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and visiting the office every six months for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning. It’s also important to eat a healthy, balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

To see if you might benefit from scaling and root planing, make an appointment at Franklin Square Dental by calling the nearest office or clicking the online booking tool today.