Is Scale and Root Planing Painful?
Scaling & Root Planing
If a patient has mild or moderate gum disease, scaling and root planing may be suggested. This procedure is often used in the treatment of gum disease and removes plaque and tartar which have accumulated on the teeth and below the gums.
Oral Hygiene
It is important for patients to be consistent in practicing good oral hygiene which includes twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular dental visits. During routine visits to the dentist patients receive a professional cleaning and examination. An electric toothbrush can be effective in cleaning the teeth and removing plaque. Plaque must be regularly removed to prevent gum disease. Patients with severe periodontal disease often require surgical treatment. In this case, scaling and root planing may be recommended prior to surgery.
Scaling
Plaque is a sticky film which accumulates on the teeth and below the gumline. When it is not removed with regular brushing and flossing, it can develop into gum disease. Receding gums put patients at increased risk for gum disease and the dental professional may suggest the patient undergo scaling. Scaling is a non-surgical procedure where plaque is removed from below the gums.
Tools
Two types of tools are used for a scaling which are summarized below:
- Hand-held: A dental scaler and curette are metal hand tools which help to remove plaque from the teeth. The dental professional relies on touching the affected areas to determine where there is tartar buildup based on the rough spots.
- Ultrasonic: An ultrasonic scaling instrument uses a metal tip which vibrates in addition to cold water for the removal of plaque and tartar. Debris is effectively chipped off and washed away.
Pain
A local anesthetic is used to numb the gums and roots of the teeth during the procedure. While it is normal to experience some minor discomfort and soreness, patients should not have significant pain. Any pain should dissipate within a day or two. Scaling is completed both above and below the gum line on the teeth while root planing smooths out rough spots on the roots. In most cases, patients are able to manage any discomfort with an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pain worsens or persists for more than a few days, contact the office right away as it may indicate an infection or underlying issue.
Potential Complications
Be sure to review your health history with the dental professional prior to undergoing scaling and root planing. One possible complication associated with the procedure is that bacteria can be introduced into the bloodstream. If a patient has a compromised immune system, it is necessary to take additional precautions during treatment. This may include patients who have liver disease, heart issues, or various illnesses like HIV. Patients may also be prescribed antibiotics before and/or after treatment to help prevent infection.
Call the office today to determine if you may be a good candidate for scaling and root planing. The team can discuss any questions you have regarding the procedure and what to expect.