Is root planing painful? Maintaining good oral health is key for general health, and frequent dental cleanings play an important role in this. Scaling and root planning are treatments used in dentistry to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums.
While these therapies are essential for preventing gum disease and preserving healthy gums, many people are concerned about their discomfort. Let’s look at some of the most common concerns about root planing and scaling pain, as well as what to expect during and after the operation.
Understanding Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical periodontal therapies used to treat gum disease, also known as periodontitis. The dentist or dental hygienist uses special equipment to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum line during scaling. On the other hand, root planing involves flattening the dental roots to remove bacterial deposits and promote gum reattachment.Root Planing and Scaling Pain Management
Dental professionals use local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated during scaling and root planing. This helps in reducing any pain or discomfort during the procedure. The amount of anesthesia required may depend on the extent of gum disease and the individual’s pain tolerance.Severe Pain After Scaling and Root Planing
While some discomfort is to be expected after scaling and root planing, extreme pain is not. If a patient’s pain persists or worsens, they should visit their dentist right away. Severe discomfort could indicate complications or an underlying problem that requires rapid attention.When to Call Your Dentist
While some temporary discomfort is expected, contact your dentist if you experience:- Throbbing or persistent pain
- Increased swelling or redness
- Bleeding that doesn’t subside
- Signs of infection, like fever or chills