Scaling and root planning

Calculus is a mineralized layer of dental plaque. Initially, plaque forms a deposit without symptoms but as it builds up, it can lead to numerous infections and diseases such as gingivitis (inflammation of gums), bleeding gums, dental caries and loose (mobile) teeth. It is recommended to brush the teeth precisely removing plaque and have a regular professional cleaning and scaling at your dentist's to avoid complications mentioned above. There are two types of calculus: supragingival (above the gum line) and subgingival (below the gum line). Below there is a simplified description of scaling procedure:

Supragingival scaling:

   - first appointment: Your dentist removes calculus from your teeth with an ultrasonic scaler, polishes their surface and applies a fluoride varnish on them in order to minimize hypersensitivity after the procedure.

Subgingival scaling:

   - first appointment: Before subgingival scaling, your dentist administers the local anaesthetic so that the procedure can be performed painlessly. Next, subgingival calculus is removed with an ultrasonic scaler and a dressing is put on the gums. After the procedure has been completed, the dentist prescribes a patient an appropriate mouthwash.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- does scaling harm enamel? - carefully and properly performed scaling is not harmful to enamel.
- how often should scaling be done? - the need for scaling is determined by the level of personal oral hygiene and composition of saliva. The more mineral compounds saliva contains the more plaque is formed on teeth. It is recommended to perform scaling every 1 to 3 years.