Root Planing by a Gum Specialist
Root Planing involves cleaning and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth with thin curettes, so that gum tissue can more firmly reattach to roots that are clean and smooth to prevent tooth loss and sensitivity problems.
When is Root Planing Necessary?
Root Planing is required to remove tartar under the gum. It helps:
- To control the growth of harmful bacteria
- To help gums or the pocket wall reattach firmly to the clean root surface, which helps prevent tooth loss
- To prevent further bleeding of the gums
- To reduce gum swelling
- To decrease tooth sensitivity due to gum recession
- To prevent bone loss
- To prevent tooth loss due to gum disease
Procedure
The dental professional doing the cleaning usually starts by using an ultrasonic device, which is an instrument that cleans by vibrating particles off the root surfaces and simultaneously flushes the pockets out with water.
The root planing is then finished with delicate small hand instruments known as curettes. The pockets are often further irrigated with an antibacterial medication like iodine, chlorhexidene or in some specific cases, antibiotics.
Prices
Starting from $280 per quadrant
FAQs
Q- What is the difference between Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling is basically the process of removing dental tartar from the surfaces of the teeth (see dental cleanings). Root planing is the process of cleaning the infection of tartar that is stuck on the roots deep below the gum. It is normally done under local anaesthetic.
Q – Does it hurt?
Depending on the depth of the pocket and severity of the root surface irregularity, the dentist may wish to make the area numb so that the process is comfortable for you. Don’t hesitate to discuss with your dentist or hygienist how to best manage any discomfort.
Sometimes, when the pockets are not too deep, there may be little to no discomfort during the procedure – even without anaesthesia. The only sensation may be the physical scraping feeling along the teeth as the area is cleaned and smoothened. A root planed root surface free of tartar enables the gum tissues to heal and reattach to it. As a result, some deep gum pockets can be reduced after a deep cleaning.
What to Expect after Treatment
- Levels of discomfort can vary after root planing, but one can expect soreness afterwards since it’s mostly in a deeper region under the gums.
- The teeth themselves can become a bit more sensitive to temperature, and bleeding might occur for a little while.
- Over-the-counter painkillers work very well to alleviate discomfort, but stronger painkillers can be given when required.
- Brushing and flossing can be delayed or done more gently to avoid aggravating any tender gum areas.
- Your dentist or hygienist may recommend salt water or chlorhexidine rinses.