How long does dental scaling take

Using a special ultrasonic scaling device that removes tartar, plaque, and biofilm, our hygienist cleans the tooth surface and under the gum line. No, root planing and scaling are not the same thing, though they are part of the procedure known as deep cleaning.

Root planing is when the root surface is smoothed, and infected tissue is removed. Local anesthesia is used on the area to be treated to make you comfortable and avoid pain. After scaling and root planing there will be some discomfort or soreness in the gums.

Our hygienist will recommend that you use an antiseptic mouthwash or simply warm, salty water to swish around your mouth when you get home and avoid eating hard foods immediately after.

There should be no down time required, though the numbing feeling will last for a few hours after the procedure is completed, but you could return to work and can drive as you normally do. You will need to ask for time off for the scaling and root planing. Depending on how much plaque is found, it can take about an hour to do one side of the mouth. After undergoing the scaling and root planing procedure, you can expect your teeth and gums to begin the healing process.

You can help the process along by following some simple practices:. This should include brushing and flossing. You may also want to start using a mouth rinse as directed by a treating dentist.

The best way to avoid a recurrence or progression of your gum disease is to keep all your visits with your dental health providers. In fact, most dental cleanings can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, with some lasting around an hour.

The length of your cleaning appointment will mostly depend on the current condition of your teeth and gums, as well as what type of cleaning is needed. During a preventative cleaning, your hygienist will use a special tool called a dental scaler to remove plaque and tartar by gently scraping or applying a pressurized water stream.

It is important to note that while dental plaque is soft and can be removed by regular brushing and flossing, dental calculus tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed using a scaler. After removing the larger pieces of plaque and tartar with a scaler, your hygienist will use a gritty toothpaste to brush your teeth. They will then floss and rinse your mouth to remove the toothpaste and remove any remaining debris.

Once the teeth are completely clean, fluoride will be applied to the surface to strengthen the enamel and discourage future plaque accumulation. For most people, this type of cleaning is sufficient.

However, additional cleanings may be required for those with gum disease or those who have significant tartar buildup. Dental scaling can take several visits, each one addressing a different portion of the mouth. Some dentists divide the mouth into four quadrants, while others will perform dental scaling in two halves. Your mouth may feel sore and sensitive after your dental scaling and root planing. Some patients experience swelling or bleeding for a few days following the procedure.

Your dentist may suggest a desensitizing toothpaste to help ease this discomfort. You might get a prescription mouthwash to use after the procedure, as well, to help keep the gums clean.

Your dentist should schedule a second a visit after your dental scaling to examine the gums, measure the depth of your gum pockets, and make sure your mouth is healing properly.

If the gum pockets have gotten deeper since your scaling, you may need to explore additional treatment options to help you maintain a healthy smile. Dental scaling is a very common treatment for patients with gum disease. Scheduling dental scaling as needed can help you battle unseen plaque and maintain a cleaner mouth.

Skip to content. British Columbia Ontario. By the third to fourth day, normal oral hygiene techniques can be resumes. Mouth rinsing is recommended with either of the following solutions: 1 an antimicrobial rinse, or 2 a warm saline rinse.

Use of these rinsed should be limited to one to two weeks. Teeth scaling and root planning are common procedures to treat chronic periodontal disease.

You may need more than one appointment to complete the procedure. You may experience mild side effects following the procedure for a few days or a week. Call us today or complete the form below. Aliso Viejo Family Dental Group. Dental veneers in Aliso Viejo: Porcelain and composite veneer Dental pain: What are common causes of toothache? Dental veneers: Pros and cons of porcelain and composite veneers Replace your old crown to porcelain crown: Benefits and procedure Zirconia Crown: Advantages and Disadvantages of Zirconia Crown Lumineers versus Dental Veneer: Which one is better?

All you need to know about scaling and root planning. When do you need teeth scaling? Several conditions will require this scaling, root planning, or both: For whole body health : It has been established through research that gum disease is linked to other health problems, including the risk of heart disease and stroke.

This procedure keeps the area cleaner, and helps to keep bacteria from growing and travelling into the bloodstream. For healthier teeth : When the gums have receded, the risk of periodontal disease is increased. The pockets areas around the tooth get deeper, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to lodge and grow.

The body responds with inflammation, and the gums become red and can appear puffy or swollen. This inflammation begins to destroy the gum tissue. Aesthetics : This procedure can be helpful in removing stains on the teeth and creating a more pleasing smile. Bad breath : Ongoing bad breath is caused by bacteria, much of which is living below the gum line.

Scaling and root planning clears away the bacteria and plaque so you can have fresher, cleaner breath. During each appointment, your dentist performs the following steps: Your doctor starts by using a local anesthetic to numb the area of the mouth he is working on. After he confirms that the anesthetic is working, your hygienist or dentist begins scaling the teeth and planning the roots of all calculus and debris in the periodontal pockets.

Your dentist accomplishes this using curved instruments called scalers and curettes.