Scaling and Root Planing

Periodontal diseases (also known as gum disease) are infections of the gum and jawbone that hold teeth in place.  They are often painless, and you may not be aware that you have a problem until your gums and the supporting bone are seriously damaged. The good news is that periodontal diseases often can be treated in the early stages with scaling and root planing.

During your examination, Dr. Miller or Dr. Bounds will examine your gums for periodontal problems.  He will then use an instrument called a periodontal probe to gently measure the depth of the spaces (i.e. pockets) between your teeth and gums. 

Scaling is a procedure performed by the dental hygienist to remove plaque and tarter beneath the gumline.  Using an instrument called a scaler or an ultrasonic scaler, the hygienist carefully removes the plaque and tarter down to the bottom of each periodontal pocket. The tooth’s root surfaces then are smoothed or planed.  This allows the gum tissue to heal.  It also makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate along the root surfaces.