What is Scaling and Root Planing?

If you have a tough case of gum disease, your dentist may recommend a dental procedure called dental Scaling and Root Planing (SRP). This is also known as conventional periodontal therapy or a non-surgical periodontal therapy. While standard cleaning treats the surface of the tooth, dental scaling and root planing are performed to remove the etiologic agents – dental plaque and tartar (calculus) – which cause inflammation to the gum and the surrounding area. At times, scaling and root planing is also advised when gums have started to pull away from the teeth Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective and recommended ways to treat gum disease before it gets any worse.

Image Credit: American Dental Association – mouthhealthy.org

What are the methods used to perform Scaling and root planing?

The Scaling and Root Planing procedure involves completely scaling all the bacterial toxins, plaque, and tartar deposits from your teeth and root surfaces. After scaling, the root planing process starts, which smoothes all rough areas on your roots' surfaces. Root planing is done to keep the root surfaces smooth which helps keep the bacteria, plaque and tartar from re-attaching underneath the gum line. Generally, there are two methods used for scaling and root planing, some dentists might prefer to use both.

• Hand-held instruments. A dental scaler and curette will be used to manually remove or scale the plaque and tartar deposits from your teeth and root surfaces.
• Ultrasonic instruments. A vibrating metal tip along with a cool water spray attached to it is used as an ultrasonic instrument. This instrument chips off the tartar and sprays it with water to wash the tartar away.

What is laser-assisted scaling and root planing?

In laser-assisted scaling and root planing, the laser removes sore gum tissue and allows access to the root and removes the tartar/calculus. Once the laser finishes the cleaning, it seals the pocket closed.   The benefits laser treatment offers are:

• Prevents bacterial growth for over 2 weeks as opposed to the normal 3-5 days
• Faster healing and healthier tissues as it promotes tissue re-growth
• Less discomfort and bleeding

Is Scaling of teeth Painful? What are the side effects scaling?

During the process, the dentist will use a local anesthesia to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth.  Scaling and root planing might cause you a little discomfort. Some patients experience swelling and bleeding following the procedure if the gums are too sensitive. Sometimes, to speed the healing process and prevent any further infection, your dentist may place antibiotic fibers into the pockets between your teeth and gums. These fibers will be taken out within a week or so. Also, you can expect your gums to be a little tender and numb because of the anesthesia, but otherwise, if you continue taking utmost care for the next two days your gums should regain the form and be healthy and by utmost care I mean, daily tooth brushing with a soft bristle brush, flossing and absolutely no use of tobacco, as tobacco slows down the healing process. Although this whole procedure can be completed in one sitting, it is generally advisable to treat a quarter or half of the mouth per appointment. With proper care post-treatment, gum disease will eventually stop, and your gum will be cavity free, strong, healthy and pink again!

What is the cost of Dental Scaling and Root Planing in Bangalore?

As with any treatment, the cost of Scaling and Root planing also varies depending upon the location, the dentist's experience, techniques, and equipment used. On an average the Scaling cost Rs. 1000 for the whole mouth and Root Planing costs Rs. 1000 for a quadrant.  Your dentist will provide you with a proper estimate based on your condition. Feel free to write to us or comment below in case you need any other information