If you have been advised to undergo a procedure of deep cleaning by your dentist then you have come to the right place to gain more information about the procedure. Let’s begin! At Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Institute, Ashok Vihar, New Delhi it is recommended that you should know about the procedure and what to expect before going ahead with it.
What is scaling and root planning?
Scaling and root planning is a clinical procedure performed in the daily practice of the clinic. It is a part of the deep cleaning. During this procedure the calculus attached to the tooth and the root surface are removed using special instruments. These are special hand instruments called curettes used in root planning. Ultrasonic instruments are also used for the procedure of scaling.
The root planning is essential for smoothening the root surface of the tooth after removal of calculus, so that no rough surface is left behind.
This rough surface can act as a source of formation of more calculus later.
Why is scaling and root planning needed?
Scaling and root planning is required for the following causes:
- Supra and sub gingival calculus present.
- Swollen and erythematous gums.
- Periodontal pockets ( pseudo or true pockets)
- Before a periodontal surgery.
- Halitosis.
What is calculus?
Calculus is a hard deposit formed on the tooth and root surface over a period of time when hygiene is not maintained. It forms by the process of deposition of calcium and other extra cellular products on the surface where food is present in the form of plaque/pellicle. In the initial stages the calculus formed is supra gingival (above and around the gingiva) which eventually turns into sub gingival calculus if it is not removed at the right time. Sub gingival calculus detaches the gum away from the tooth which eventually effects the support system of the tooth.
What are the types of calculus?
There are two types of calculus:
a) Supra gingival calculus
Supra gingival calculus is the type of calculus found on the tooth surface that is above the gingival margin. It can be seen clinically. It is light yellow or white in colour matching the colour of the tooth in most cases. It follows the contour of the tooth that is why most of the times the patients think it is the part of the tooth itself.
b) Sub gingival calculus
The sub gingival calculus is the calculus that is present below the gingival margin and cannot be seen clinically as it is covered by the gingiva all the time. It is darker in shade, like a black or a brown in shade. It is harder than the supra gingival calculus. It is attached to the tooth with the root surface of the tooth and is difficult to remove.
What are gum diseases and what are the different types?
Gum disease is a condition that is found in most of the population of the world. It is caused by the deposition of plaque and calculus which is formed from plaque ( if left uncleaned ).
It is characterized by swollen and red gums which bleed on touch, eating or probing.
Sometimes the gum may be sore to touch.
If this is not taken care of the condition worsens to affect the supporting structure of the tooth which eventually loosens the tooth.
Gum diseases are of following types :
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
What to expect after scaling and root planning?
- Sensitivity in teeth post scaling and root planning for 1 week.
- Dull pain in the teeth for 1-2 days.
- Your gum may be swollen for initial days.
- Gums may bleed and slightly tender on touching.
What post op care should be taken after scaling and root planning?
- Follow the instructions given by your dentist precisely.
- Medicated mouth wash prescribed by your dentist has to be used twice daily after brushing and in the middle of the day after your meal to maintain oral hygiene.
- Analgesics and antibiotics given have to be eaten as prescribed.
- Follow proper brushing technique to maintain hygiene with a soft brush.
- Eat a balanced diet and specially rich in Vitamin C.
- Avoid smoking and use of tobacco.
- Follow up with your dentist regularly.
I am sure you will be feeling well informed after reading this informative blog. If you have any more queries book your appointment today at Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Institute, Ashok Vihar, New Delhi to get the world class experience of dentistry. We strive everyday to make your experience better and better each day.
