Scaling & Root Planing

Having a beautiful and healthy smile is something everyone craves for. However, not all of us are lucky enough to have a naturally contagious smile, and this when dentists step in. Our customizable dental solutions can help you get the smile of your dreams and make sure your oral health is holding stable at a standard level. One such procedure that improves both aesthetics and oral health is teeth cleaning.

What does teeth cleaning mean?

Teeth cleaning comprises two procedures, namely, scaling and root planing. Both these procedures aim to eliminate the accumulated plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and the roots, respectively. This gets rid of both the dark patches and the microbes from the teeth, which improves the aesthetics and oral health.

How are scaling and root planing performed?

The dentist would carefully analyze your condition to determine the extent of plaque and tartar accumulation. A hand-held scaling device would be necessary for this purpose. The device is an ultrasonic one, and it dislodges the tartar deposits by vibrating at ultrasonic frequencies. A jet of water will be used along with the scaling device to wash away the removed tartar and debris.

Root planing is also a similar procedure, but it is performed on the tooth roots. Since the scaling device will be inserted between the gums and the root surface, it may lead to pain and discomfort, which is why we would administer local anesthesia before starting it. This will numb the mouth's soft tissues and the teeth, thereby keeping you from feeling any pain.

What are the advantages of teeth cleaning?

• Plaque and tartar are known to be the leading causes of several oral conditions such as bad breath, tooth decay, gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, etc. Getting rid of the accumulated plaque considerably improves oral health and reduces the severity of cavities and gum infections.
• The chances of gum receding will be reduced after scaling and root planing. Also, inflammation of the gums due to microbes will be controlled.
• The severity of bad breath, or halitosis, will be reduced as the foul odor-causing microbes will be removed.
• When the microbes from tartar gain entry into the bloodstream through the gums, the patient would be more susceptible to develop heart conditions. Scaling and root planing avoid this.

Patients with gum disease may need to remove plaque and tartar buildup with a deep periodontal cleaning. Dr. Larry Leonakis offers scaling and root planing in Carson City, Nevada, to control gum disease and prevent worsening symptoms. If you suspect you may have gum disease, call 775-882-0635 to arrange an evaluation with our dentist; you may benefit from receiving scaling and root planing.