How Often Do You Need Tooth Scaling and Root Planing?

Overview of the Treatment Process
During tooth scaling and root planing, the dentist goes under the gumline and near the dental roots for deep cleaning. They remove plaque, tartar or hardened minerals, and other deposits that accumulate in the deepest parts of your teeth. This procedure is more intensive than ordinary teeth cleaning.

Before the dentist starts the treatment, a local anesthetic may be administered to numb your gums and reduce any potential discomfort. More often than not, the treatment will not be completed in a single visit; a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.

When To Schedule These Treatments
How often you should schedule these procedures will depend on your dentist’s advice and will be based on your oral health and condition. If you have periodontal disease and other serious dental issues, your dentist will recommend you get these done more frequently. These include swollen and bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.

If you have thin or weak enamel or tooth surfaces that feel rough, you will also need to get these treatments more often. This is because plaque can enter more easily, and regular brushing alone won’t remove it from your teeth.

However, if your teeth and gums are in good overall health, then you might only need this type of cleaning every few years. It is recommended for dental care maintenance to prevent plaque buildup and lower the risk of tooth loss and gum disease. Always consult your dentist since they know what’s best for you and will not suggest unnecessary scaling and root planing.