Root planing and scaling are two similar procedures. Both are used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, but they do it in different ways. Scaling removes plaque by using chemicals or physical instruments to scrape it off your teeth. Root planing uses an instrument called a root planer to smooth out the roots of your teeth so that tartar isn’t able to build upon them again as quickly.
Because both of these procedures have similar goals, some people wonder which one is more effective at preventing tooth decay and gingivitis (gingivitis is a common side effect of having plaque and tartar on your teeth). Both procedures are simple and can be completed in just a few minutes. Scaling usually involves the use of an ultrasonic cleaner or chemical solutions that aid in removing plaque or tartar from your teeth.
Root planing takes longer than scaling because you must go over each tooth several times with the tool to remove built-up plaque or tartar and roughen up the surface of each tooth to prevent further buildup. This article will help you understand exactly what these procedures entail and which one is best for keeping your smile healthy.
What is Scaling?
Scaling is a dental procedure that removes the tartar from your teeth by scraping it off with a metal instrument called a scaler. This procedure involves placing the scaler directly on the teeth and scraping off anything that is causing tooth decay. One advantage of scaling is that it can be done in one visit to the dentist.
What is Root Planing?
Root planing is a dental procedure that involves smoothing the roots of your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Root planing, also known as scaling and root planing, is a method used to clean out plaque from the grooves in your teeth.
This procedure is usually combined with other treatments like tooth-whitening or teeth cleaning because it leaves your teeth looking healthier. Unlike scaling, which only removes the plaque on top of your teeth, root planing can reach into the deep crevices between your teeth where bacteria often hides.
Root planing can be performed on just one tooth or all of them at once. If you have a particularly bad case of plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth, scaling may be more effective than root planing because it can remove heavier buildups in just one treatment. Root planing also has the side benefits of improving gum health and eliminating bad breath.
How effective is Scaling?
Scaling and root planing effectiveness is a simple procedure that can be completed in a few minutes. It removes plaque by scraping it off your teeth with a chemical or physical instrument. Scaling usually involves the use of an ultrasonic cleaner or chemical solutions that aid in removing plaque or tartar from your teeth.
People are often drawn to scaling because it’s quick and easy. But scaling is less effective than root planing at preventing tooth decay and gingivitis (gingivitis is a common side effect of having plaque and tartar on your teeth). The effectiveness of scaling depends on what type of instruments you’re using to scrape off the plaque. For example, if you use a manual scaler, it could take up to 10 minutes to remove as much plaque as possible. With an ultrasonic cleaner, you can complete the job in just one minute.
Manual scalers don’t remove all of the plaque because they can only access flat areas where the tooth meets the gum line. You also have to scrub hard enough for them to work properly so there’s a good chance that your gums will be irritated afterward.
How effective is Root Planing?
Root planing is a little more effective than scaling at removing plaque or tartar from your teeth. Root planing doesn’t remove the plaque completely, but it helps to prevent future build-up on your teeth. Scaling can be too harsh for some people and will take off the outer layer of your tooth, which can lead to sensitivity.
Root planing requires less pressure, making it more comfortable for those who have sensitive teeth. However, many dentists don’t recommend using either procedure exclusively because the plaque or tartar will eventually come back if you don’t take other measures to keep it away in the first place.
The most effective way to keep your smile healthy is by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every day.
Which Is Better: Scaling or Root Planing?
The answer to this question is that it depends on your teeth. For example, if you have a tartar problem, then scaling would be better for you because it removes plaque and tartar. On the other hand, if you have gum disease, root planing would be effective as well. Root planing is recommended before any other treatment for people with gum disease.
Root planing can also be used in tandem with scaling to give your teeth the best possible care. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth while root planing smoothes out your roots and prevents plaque from building up there again as quickly. So, in essence, both procedures are important for keeping your smile healthy.
Conclusion
Scaling and root planing are both methods of removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Scaling is a method of removing plaque from the surface of the tooth, while root planing is used to clean the roots of the tooth.
The effectiveness of scaling largely depends on the skill level of the dentist performing it. The effectiveness of root planing depends on whether your teeth are beyond repair. If your teeth are in poor health, root planing will do more for you than scaling.
Root planing is better for those who want to maintain or improve the health of their teeth, while scaling is better for those who want to maintain their teeth’s appearance.
References:
1-Anxiety, pain and type of dental procedure
Received 31 October 1983, Available online 24 May 2002.
2-A re-evaluation of scaling and root planing
First published: 04 March 2021
