Scaling and Root Planing

Our dental hygienist removes the plaque through a common deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing. Occasionally, Dr. Orobitg will also perform these procedures.

Scaling removes plaque, tartar, and stains from the surface of the teeth. Root planing smoothes the root surfaces to promote healing and disrupt the bacteria causing the periodontal pocket, to promote healing.

While local anesthesia is usually used for this procedure, there are no needles involved. Oraqix is a periodontal gel, and it makes the scaling and/or root planning more comfortable for patients having the deep cleaning. Sometimes, local areas of periodontal infection can be treated without local anesthetic.

After root planning, a patient generally returns every three – four months for follow-up cleanings to assess the treatment and re-treat any additional areas of concern. This is important because it takes bacteria about three months to get to a level where it can breakdown more structural bone in any residual periodontal pockets.