Scaling and root planing is a careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus [tartar] from deep periodontal pockets and to smooth the tooth root to remove bacterial toxins.This is the most basic procedure performed to treat periodontal disease. Often, changes can be seen immediately following a series of scaling and root planingsessions. After the procedure, previously red, swollen and bleeding gums become more pink and firm. Bleeding is reduced or eliminated, and the pockets get smaller. When this happens it is easier to practice plaque control measures, and it helps slow down the disease process.
Periodontal disease is most often and initially treated with scaling and root planing. This treatment is the most effective way to treat gum disease before it becomes severe. Following scaling and root planing, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing and maintaining regular visits for periodontal maintenance. 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.
In more advanced cases, pocket depths of greater than 5 or 6 mm, all the subgingival (beneath the gum) calculus may not be eliminated. Depending on the re-evaluation of the periodontal tissues after scaling, further treatment — often surgical re-contouring of the gums — may be required to establish an environment which can be maintained with brushing teeth, floss and other cleansing aids.