Scaling and Root Planing in Des Plaines, IL

Gum disease can cause a lot of problems with both your oral health and overall health. Some cases of acute periodontal (gum) disease that do not respond to more conventional treatment options and self-care, such as flossing, may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing. Let’s look at how the scaling and root planing procedure works.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

We start the scaling and root planing procedure with the administration of a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. Then a small instrument called a “scaler,” or an ultrasonic cleaner is used to clean beneath your gum line to remove plaque and tartar. The root surfaces of the tooth are then planed and smoothed to allow the gum tissue to heal and reattach itself to the tooth.

Contact our office about scaling and root planing in Des Plaines to see if you might need this procedure for improved oral health.