Scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical gum care procedure done by the hygienist. It is used to maintain periodontal disease when pockets in the gums are greater than three millimeters.
Scaling is used to remove plaque and tartar beneath the gum line. To reduce any discomfort, a numbing anesthetic or nitrous oxide may be given. Using proper dental instrument for scaling, the hygienist gently removes plaque and tartar from within the periodontal pockets. Next planing is done which is when the surfaces of the teeth are smoothed. This procedure allows the gum tissue to heal and prevents any build-up of plaque along the roots of the teeth.
