Although scaling and root planing is considered a basic form of treatment, a lot of patients often worry that scaling below the gum line and root planing is invasive and want to avoid this treatment at all costs. However, let’s take a look at how scaling and root planing is carried out and how you should care for your teeth after the treatment.

Stages of Subgingival Scaling

1. The dentist will carry out a in depth examination of the mouth and measure the dental pockets with a dental probe and this will determine the form of treatment required.

2. After confirming that subgingival scaling and root planing is required, according to the pain threshold of patients the dentist will decided whether local anesthetic is required.

3. A ultrasonic scaler will be used to clean the dental calculus and bacteria from the gum pockets.

4. After the subgingival scaling and root planing depending on how severe the case is the dentist may or may not prescribe medication.

In more severe cases patients may need to attend between 2 to 4 appointments for scaling. With regular appointments and check-ups, if the gums are recovering well then there is only the need for regular dental cleanings. If there is subgingival infection then there is the possibility that flap surgery or crown lengthening might be considered.

Can you brush your teeth after subgingival scaling?

Generally speaking after subgingival scaling you can brush your teeth. To maintain treatment results you should brush at least twice a day for 3 to 5 minutes. You may experience discomfort for the next few days so you should use a soft bristle tooth brush and use medication prescribed by the dentist when needed. Also after eating each meal you should rinse out your mouth and use dental floss.