Perio scaling, also known as periodontal scaling or periodontal prophylaxis, is a procedure that dentists use to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
It’s called scaling because the dentist uses special instruments called scalers to gently scrape away calculus (or mineralized plaque) and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth. It’s also called root planing because the dentist uses different kinds of planes to smooth out any irregularities in the roots of your teeth before they are cleaned.
This article will answer many questions you may have about perio scaling and root planing. If you’re reading this post as a future dental hygienist, we recommend that you skip ahead to the “Working As A Dental Hygienist” section at the end of this article for some tips on how you can further prepare yourself for this career. Keep reading if you want to learn more about these two common dental procedures…
What is Perio Scaling?
Perio scaling, or periodontal scaling, is a procedure that dentists use to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. It’s called scaling because the dentist uses special instruments called scalers to gently scrape away calculus (or mineralized plaque) and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth.
What is Root Planing?
Root planing, also called periodontal scaling, is a procedure that dentists use to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Dentists generally do an exam first so they can check for any signs of gum disease or tooth decay.
The dentist may have to go back and forth between your top and bottom teeth several times with this instrument, which looks like a mini-shovel with a curved blade on one side.
Benefits of Perio Scaling and Root Planing
Perio scaling and root planing are a regular part of dental hygiene, but we are not going to lie—they can be uncomfortable. However, the benefits of perio scaling and root planing outweigh the discomfort. One of the most important benefits of perio scaling is getting rid of tartar.
Another important benefit of perio scaling is preventing periodontal diseases from occurring.
Periodontal diseases are some of the most common problems that dentists see—in fact, about 80 percent of Americans have them! These diseases cause inflammation in your gums and around your teeth which leads to tooth loss.
The other big benefit of perio scaling is simply making sure that you have healthy teeth for life. By keeping up with treatments like this one, you can avoid having tooth decay or gum disease so you don’t need invasive procedures later
Disadvantages of Perio Scaling and Root Planing
The advantages of perio scaling and root planing are obvious. But, as with any dental procedure, there are also some disadvantages. 1) It can be expensive to have a cleaning and scaling done every six months. 2) Periodontal scaling may not completely remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth.
Is Perio Scaling or Root Planing Right for You?
If you want to know if perio scaling or root planing is right for you, talk to your dentist. He or she can help you decide whether these treatments are necessary.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
1 practice good oral hygiene 2. Eat a healthy diet If you want to keep your teeth healthy, try to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Foods with a high acid content can weaken tooth enamel, which makes them more prone to decay or erosion.
References:
1: Periodontal diseases
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67728-82: Ultrasonic dental scaler: associated hazards
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1034/j.1600-051X.2003.00276.x