What is root planing?
Normal tooth cleanings remove plaque and calculus deposits from above the gum line. Root planing is necessary when these deposits extend below the gum line. Root planing is performed with the same tools as normal cleanings but the procedure is more aggressive. Often it is necessary to numb the affected area before the procedure. Once the accumulated plaque and calculus have been removed, the gums will heal, tightening around the teeth. Depending upon the extent of disease found in the examination, root planing may be done over several practice visits. In this way, your dentist can assess the progress of treatment and alter tactics if necessary. Simply stated, root planing may be considered as an extension of a “routine cleaning”. A “routine cleaning” is intended to clean harden deposits that form above the gums. Over time, these deposits often form below the gums, on the roots. It is at this point that we recommend root planing.
