Scaling and root planing are considered the cornerstone of periodontal therapy. This deep cleaning procedure is typically recommended when there are signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, swelling, or pocket formation around the teeth. Scaling involves meticulously removing plaque and
tartar deposits from the surfaces of the teeth both above and below the gumline. These deposits harbor bacteria that can lead to gum inflammation and infection if not removed. After scaling, the root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed through a process called root planing. This helps remove
bacterial toxins and ensures that the gums can reattach more securely to the teeth. Smoother root surfaces are less likely to accumulate harmful bacteria, thus promoting healing and reducing the risk of further gum disease progression.