Scaling and Root Planing

Your oral health is as much important as your overall health. Along with daily brushing and flossing, it is also essential to go for regular dental cleanings and exams. Your routine dental habits and dental visits can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, which leads to gum disease. 

When you visit us for a dental checkup, we will examine your teeth and perform a deep cleaning that involves scaling and root planing. 

What is the scaling process?

Scaling is a non-surgical procedure that involves the removal of plaque and tartar deposits from both above and below the gumline. It is either performed manually or using an ultrasonic dental device.

While performing scaling manually, the dentist uses a mirror and touches the surface of teeth to identify regions of plaque deposits. Then, a scaling instrument is used to manually scrape off the plaque and tartar deposits. On the other hand, ultrasonic scaling uses an automated device to remove plaque and tartar. The device primarily consists of an ultrasonic vibrating tip and a water spray. The ultrasonic tip identifies areas with plaque and tartar and scrapes them thoroughly, and the water spray or jet cleans the abscess pockets present below the gumline.

What happens during the root planing procedure?

Root planing is performed to remove plaque from the deeper regions and tooth roots. It also smooths the rough root surfaces, which provide a breeding ground for bacteria. Root planing also helps the gums and teeth to reattach themselves.

After the completion of the procedure, an antimicrobial is used to disinfect the treated area.

At Murray Dental Care of Cupertino, our entire team of dentists and hygienists are committed to providing supreme quality dental care to our patients and their families. If you are inclined towards taking the first steps to improve your dental health and hygiene, call us at (408) 253-5277 to book an appointment.