Dental scaling or a deep teeth cleaning is a procedure performed on patients with an excess buildup of plaque or early signs of gum disease. A deep cleaning differs from a standard cleaning as it goes much deeper than the tooth’s surface. Patients are often alarmed when their dentist suggests a teeth scaling, but rest assured that it is a safe and effective treatment that is commonly performed.
Understanding Scaling
In many cases, teeth scaling is performed on patients who have early signs of gum disease. This deep cleaning goes below the gum line and effectively removes the buildup of plaque and tartar. A deep cleaning may also be called scaling and root planing. A deep cleaning is different from a professional cleaning, which is typically completed twice a year along with a routine dental exam.
Candidates for Scaling
It is normal to experience a buildup of plaque on the teeth. This happens every day when saliva, bacteria, and proteins in the mouth form a thin layer that covers the teeth. When we eat, small food particles, acids, and sugars adhere to this film. This creates plaque on the teeth. Over time, the bacteria found in plaque can result in decay and gum disease. Good oral hygiene helps remove plaque and prevent serious issues. This includes twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular dental visits.
When gum disease begins to form, the gum tissue starts to become loose around the teeth. In healthy gums, the tissue fits snugly around the teeth. Patients with gum disease have deeper pockets that easily accumulate and collect plaque. In the early stage of gum disease, patients may have sensitive gums and bad breath. Periodontal pockets that are 4 millimeters or more often require dental scaling in order to remove the plaque below the gums.
Scaling Procedure
The dental scaling procedure involves carefully removing plaque bacteria from the surface of the tooth below the gum line. There are two different methods dental professionals can use for teeth scaling. Handheld instruments such as a dental scaler and curettes are used to carefully scrape plaque from the tooth. The dental professional inserts a thin tool below the gum line to access hard-to-reach plaque. Ultrasonic instruments can also be used to scale the teeth. These instruments contain a vibrating metal tip along with a cool water spray to flush out the deep pockets.
Dental scaling is typically followed by root planing, which reaches deeper below the gums to the tooth’s root. Root planing works by smoothing out the root’s surface, which allows the gums to properly reattach to the tooth.
Pain
Unfortunately, dental scaling can cause some discomfort. This is especially true for patients with sensitive gums. A local anesthetic is often used to numb the gum tissue and ensure patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Patients can often use an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage any post-procedure pain. It can take a few visits to complete dental scaling, as dental professionals typically complete the treatment in one quadrant or half at a time.
Call the office today if you are concerned that you may be suffering from gum disease. Our team can schedule an appointment to determine if you could benefit from teeth scaling or a deep cleaning.