Scaling and Root Planing

The three stages of gum disease – from least to most severe – are gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum tissue that could affect the teeth and supporting bone in your mouth. If you think the metal scaling tool we use on you during a professional cleaning is scary, our staff at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists doubts you want to get to the point where you’ll need scaling and root planing.

Plaque bacteria, acids and certain foods all contribute to the development of gum disease. Fortunately, two common methods exist to reverse the disease. Dental scaling occurs with manual hand instruments, ultrasonic instruments or both. Our dentist will start the procedure with a thorough examination of your mouth. Next, an ultrasonic scaling device will be used to eliminate the plaque bacteria with sonic vibrations. Root planing involves detailed scaling of the root surface to decrease inflammation of the gum tissue. If your gum tissue is sensitive and diseased, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the tissue. Dental scaling and root planing may take two to four visits based upon the level of oral disease in the mouth.

If you wish to inquire about the comfort level of the scaling and root planing procedure, give us a call. To learn more about scaling and root planing as well as other services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.