Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus [tartar] from deep periodontal pockets and to smooth the tooth roots to remove bacterial toxins. Scaling and root planing is often followed by adjunctive therapy such as local delivery antimicrobials and host modulation, as needed on a case-by case basis. Scaling and root planing is a very difficult procedure to do correctly. If you have periodontal pockets, it is best to have a periodontal office involved in the management of your condition. Most periodontists would agree that after scaling and root planing, many patients do not require any further active treatment. However, the majority of patients will require ongoing maintenance therapy to sustain health. If periodontal health is not maintained, it will return and will worsen and may result in tooth loss, studies show.