Scaling and Root Planing at clinics and hospitals worldwide

What exactly is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is often referred to as conventional periodontal therapy, or even deep cleaning. Essentially, scaling and root planing is the elimination of the things which tend to cause inflammation and disease - tartar and dental plaque, for example. The main purpose of scaling and root planing to keep surrounding tissue healthy and reduce the chances of periodontal disease.

Why is scaling and root planing so important?

Though people lose teeth for a variety reasons, the main cause of tooth loss in the adult population is periodontal disease. Besides maintaining good overall dental hygiene, scaling and root planing is considered the greatest defence against periodontal disease. Once infectious bacteria has made its way into gums and teeth it can quickly develop into calculus deposits which eat away at tissue and bone and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the jaw, gums, and teeth. If the plaque is allowed to develop into calculus then procedures such as teeth cleaning are no longer capable of preventing the onset of periodontal disease.

The effects of periodontal disease are both permanent and irreversible - and hugely detrimental to oral health. As well as tooth and bone loss, the surrounding gums and tissue may also be permanently damaged. This damage may result in gum recession, exposing the roots and loosening surrounding bone, increasing the chance of further tooth loss.

How is scaling and root planing performed?

Depending on the extent of the damage, anesthetics may be used to numb the area requiring treatment. Scaling is the name given to the removal of plaque and tartar. A dentist will often use instruments called ultrasonic scalers, which create high-frequency vibrations to help to dislodge and remove bacteria. Anything that is left behind can be removed using hand tools, know as fine hand scaling. The use of lasers in scaling treatment has also increased in recent years. Mouthwash or antibiotics may also be provided following treatment to prevent the risk of infection.

In severe cases where scaling and root planing can no longer address the problem, more advanced procedures such as bone graft maybe be required, or tooth extraction if the extent of damage is beyond repair.

How much does scaling and root planing cost?

Patients in the United Kingdom can expect to pay up to £300 for treatment. Scaling and root planing in Poland, on the other hand, can be found from as little as £40.