Through scaling, the dental professional will use special dental tools to remove plaque and calculus from the tooth’s crown and root surfaces. This may include the use of an ultrasonic scaling tool, and will often include an irrigation process that delivers an antimicrobial agent below the gum lines to help reduce the levels of oral bacteria present.

Through root planing, cementum and surface dentin that has been affected by harmful microorganisms, tartar and toxic material is removed. The tooth’s roots are smoothed to promote healing and prevent bacteria from sticking to them and accumulating again.

Depending on the condition of the gums or severity of gum disease and bacterial deposits present, a local anesthetic may be used in order to provide a comfortable and painless treatment.

Following a scaling and root planing procedure, the gum pockets may require treatment with antibiotics in order to promote quick tissues recovery, and to soothe irritation.