Scaling and Root Planing

Sometimes, tarter or calculus deposits can build up around a tooth under the gum line, which can later cause damage to the root of a tooth. To prevent damage and improve the stability of the tooth, these build-ups are removed by scaling. Scaling involves the use of either an ultrasonic scaling device or a small scaling instrument that can clean under the gums after the application of a local anesthetic.

Once the scaling is complete, the root may need to be restored to its original smooth shape to allow the gum to better heal by securely attaching itself back to the root. This is called planning.

scaling plano
root planing plano