Scaling and Root Planing


Periodontal scaling is a treatment procedure involving instrumentation of the crown and root surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque, calculus, and stains from these surfaces. It is performed on patients with periodontal disease and is therapeutic in nature.

Periodontal scaling may precede root planing, which is a definitive, meticulous treatment procedure designed to remove cementum and/or dentin that is rough, may be permeated by calculus, or contaminated with toxins or microorganisms. When done in a thorough fashion, some unavoidable soft tissue removal occurs.

This procedure is used as a definitive treatment in some stages of periodontal disease and is part of presurgical therapy in others. It is recognized that debriding the root surface is a critical element in establishing periodontal health. They may need to be repeated and may require local anesthetic.


Subgingival Scaling: Cleaning the tooth below the gumline.


The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.


Root Planing: Smoothing the tooth root


Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, your doctor may place an antibiotic in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for your doctor to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.

>return to top

Dr. Goodner is a specialist in Periodontics and Implantology. His practice specializes in conservative treatment of gum disease including cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhance your smile and dental implants that can replace missing teeth. He diagnoses and treats oral pathology. His practice is located at 1751 W. Orange Grove Road, Suite 101 Tucson, Arizona 85704


Home | Patient Information | Meet Us | Treatments | Referring Doctors | Our Location | Contact Us | Site MapWebsite Design by PBHS Inc. 2003