Effectiveness of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a delicate and essential art that many patients do not reap the benefit of simply because they wait too long. This is not always the patient’s fault, either. Recent reliance on ultrasonics has unfortunately led many dentists to authorize their dental hygienists to do scaling and root planing, and ultrasonic therapy cuts corners. You may be left with residual calculus that could cause a dental flare-up months or years later.

Patients who receive scaling and root planing have already been diagnosed with periodontal disease. One of the contributing factors is what’s called subgingival calculus—plaque below the gum line. To remove it requires a careful sweep of all affected root surfaces, in order to minimize the development of periodontal pockets. (You may already have pockets, but their depth can be reduced).

Our expert in scaling and root planing in Van Nuys applies fastidious attention to detail in making sure your teeth are properly scaled. The process includes perioscopic imagery, which magnifies the subgingival area up to 50 times. This enables the specialist to better visualize the calculus, and use a hand instrument to scrape away any calculus that might have been missed by ultrasonic therapy.

For more about the effectiveness of scaling and root planing, contact our dentists in Van Nuys.