What Happens During a Dental Root Planing Procedure?

What Happens During a Dental Root Planing Procedure?

As I sat in the dental chair, nervously awaiting my turn for a root planing procedure, I couldn’t help but wonder exactly what would happen. The thought of someone working on my teeth beneath the gum line was unsettling, and I was full of questions. Would it be painful? What would the dentist be doing, exactly? I wanted to know what to expect so that I could calm my nerves. After discussing with my dentist, I found that the procedure was far less intimidating than I had imagined.

What is Dental Root Planing?

Dental root planing is a deep cleaning procedure typically done when a patient has gum disease, specifically periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss, if left untreated. In this procedure, the dentist or hygienist will clean the surfaces of the roots of the teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that have accumulated beneath the gum line. The goal is to help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth, promoting better oral health.

Why is Root Planing Necessary?

Gum disease often starts with plaque buildup on the teeth. If plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, tartar below the gum line can cause inflammation, infection, and even damage to the supporting bone around the teeth. Root planing is necessary when the gum disease has progressed to a more advanced stage, known as periodontitis. By removing the tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces, root planing helps reduce gum inflammation, prevent further damage, and stop the progression of the disease.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During the root planing procedure, the dentist or hygienist will numb the area around the teeth using a local anesthetic. I remember feeling a bit of pressure but no pain as the dentist worked. Root planing typically involves cleaning below the gum line, so the dentist uses specialized instruments to carefully clean the roots of each tooth. In some cases, the dentist may need to use a scaler to remove the hardened plaque and tartar. This part of the procedure can take longer than a regular cleaning because the cleaning is much deeper.

One thing I didn’t expect was that the dentist might also smooth out the root surfaces. This process is called "planing." The idea is to make the root surfaces smooth so that bacteria are less likely to attach. It also helps the gums heal more easily and reattach to the teeth. The procedure may require multiple visits, especially if the gum disease is severe. In some cases, the dentist may also prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses to help with the healing process.

Does Root Planing Hurt?

Many patients, including myself, are concerned about pain during this procedure. Thankfully, with the numbing agents used, the procedure is relatively painless. However, after the procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort. For a day or two, I felt a bit of soreness and sensitivity in my gums, especially when I touched them or ate hot or cold foods. This discomfort is temporary, and the benefits of the procedure far outweigh the short-lived discomfort.

How Long Does the Healing Process Take?

Once the procedure is over, your gums will begin the healing process. For me, it took about a week for the soreness to subside completely. During this time, my dentist advised me to be gentle with my brushing and flossing and to use a special mouth rinse to promote healing. It’s important to follow your dentist’s post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure the best results. Some patients may experience a bit of swelling or bleeding in the gums for a few days after the procedure, but these symptoms are usually temporary and should improve within a week or two.

How Can Root Planing Improve Your Oral Health?

The results of root planing are remarkable. After the procedure, I noticed a significant improvement in the health of my gums. The swelling and bleeding that were once common when I brushed my teeth started to subside. Over time, my gums began to reattach to the teeth, which helped secure the teeth in place and prevent further bone loss. As the inflammation decreased, I also noticed that my breath smelled fresher and my mouth felt cleaner overall.

By removing the harmful bacteria and smoothing the tooth roots, root planing not only treats the current gum disease but also helps prevent future occurrences. It’s a proactive step to preserve oral health and maintain a healthy smile. Since undergoing the procedure, I’ve been much more diligent about my oral hygiene routine, and I have noticed a significant improvement in my overall dental health.

Is Root Planing a One-Time Procedure?

For many patients, root planing is a one-time procedure that can significantly improve their gum health. However, if the gum disease was particularly advanced, you may need to follow up with additional treatments. In my case, the dentist recommended regular cleanings and periodic check-ups to monitor the progress of my gum health. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash, will help keep your gums healthy and prevent the need for more extensive treatments down the line.

If you’re dealing with gum disease, don't wait too long to address the issue. Gum disease is progressive and can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Root planing is an effective and common solution that can help restore your gum health and prevent further damage. If you're considering this procedure, don't hesitate to ask your dentist for more information and to discuss whether it's the right option for you.