What Is Dental Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning procedure used to treat mild to moderate gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and from beneath the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping the gums heal.
Why Is Scaling and Root Planing Needed?
Gum disease begins when plaque builds up along and below the gumline. If left untreated, it can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Scaling and roots planing is often the first step in stopping this progression and restoring gum health.
