It is vital to go for a routine dental cleaning every year. However, these cleanings are only effective in removing soft plaque above your gum line. They do not prevent more serious dental issues that affect your gum and teeth.

Bacteria, plaque, and tartar can hide between your teeth and below your gum line. They can result in gum disease, causing your gums to swell and bleed. It may also result in the loss of your teeth. You may need a deep cleaning that involves scaling and root planing.

What Is Scaling?

Teeth scaling is an outpatient procedure that involves the removal of toxins and buildup from your gums. Bacteria feed on food that remains between your teeth and under your gum. They produce acids, plaque, and tartar that act as toxins. They cause gum irritation and cavities that may result in loss of teeth. Your dentist may recommend root scaling to remove the toxins.

What Is Root Planing?

Root planing is also an outpatient procedure that follows the scaling procedure. It helps prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. It provides a smooth surface where your gums can firmly reattach to your roots.

After the two procedures, the doctor may perform host modulation. Host modulation involves the administration of medication directly to your gums. It helps correct the remaining long-term effects of gum disease and reduces the chances of infection.

The Scaling and Planing Procedure

When your dentist first tells you about the procedure, you may wonder about the difference between the two steps. The definitions above will help you distinguish between them. However, a few other differences will help you know which stage of the procedure you are going through.

Preparation

The doctor may prepare you for the procedure by using a local anesthetic. It will lessen your discomfort and help you deal with any pain. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need more than one appointment.

The Disease Control Phase

It is the first part of the two-step procedure. You will notice that your dentist may use different tools to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar. The removal helps control periodontal disease. The devices they use include an ultrasonic scaling device. It emits sonic vibrations that remove the toxins from underneath the gum line and tooth surface.

Sometimes, the particles may be stubborn, so the dentist may use a manual dental scaler. They will scrape any large pockets to ensure the removal of all toxins.

The Prevention Phase

The second part of the two-step procedure is root planing. It involves a deeper dive into the areas, and the dentist will smooth out all the surfaces. They will remove the surface dentin and cementum that may still have toxins and microorganisms.

It prevents bacteria, plaque, and tartar from re-adhering to your teeth and underneath your gum line. Root planing allows your gum tissue to heal, reducing bleeding and inflammation.

Conclusion

Scaling involves the removal of the toxins that cause periodontal disease, while root planing prevents their reoccurrence. The two-step procedure deep cleans your teeth and gums, helping you have fresh breath. It also allows you to have better oral hygiene.

For more information on scaling and root planing, visit bty DENTAL at our offices in Anchorage, Alaska. You can call (907) 333-6666 today to schedule an appointment.