Curettage and root planing

Curettage involves the removal of plaque, calculus, and pigmentation from the crown and from root surfaces of the teeth as well as any cement on the root surfaces, in order to reveal a smooth, hard, and clean surface.

It is a clinical procedure that must be performed with local infiltrative anesthesia and, depending on the location of the calculus and the depth of the periodontal sac, it can be performed in a number of different ways, such as open curettage, closed curettage and maintenance curettage.

How is a dental curettage performed

Closed curettage: is a subgingival procedure without intentional displacement of the gum, when the periodontal sacs are under 5 millimetres. The root surface is not directly visible to the operator.

Open curettage: requires exposure of the affected root surfaces, with displacement of gingival tissues. This surgical procedure is performed when the periodontal sacs are in excess of 6 millimetres, and where there is a totally apical accumulation of calculus. For this reason, an incision must be made and a flap raised in order to facilitate access and visibility of the operative field, for the purposes of safely performing root planing and scraping.

Maintenance: is carried out between three to six months following curettage, wherein a deep cleaning exercise is carried out by applying a fine periodontic tip to the root surface to eliminate any calculus present. This procedure is usually performed without local infiltrative anaesthesia, and the frequency will depend on the requirements of each individual patient.

The objective of performing root planing is to ensure that epithelial fibres can be reattached, generating healthy conditions. The minute we intervene, changes take place in the gum and in the bone therefore, we need the surface to be completely smooth and clean so that these fibres can reattach and for excellent tissue healing to occur.

FAQs about Curettage and root planing

What is this treatment for?

It is used to treat gum diseases, especially advanced gingivitis and periodontitis, stopping the progression of the infection, reducing inflammation, and helping the gum tissue reattach to the teeth.

How does it differ from a conventional dental cleaning?

Unlike the standard cleaning (which only removes superficial tartar), scaling and root planing reaches below the gums and down to the roots to remove bacteria and deposits that cannot be reached with a normal cleaning.

When is a dental scaling and root planing indicated?

It is mainly recommended when there are clear signs of periodontal disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, deep periodontal pockets, persistent bad breath, or dental mobility.

Is scaling and root planing painful?

The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so it should not hurt during the procedure. After the treatment, it is possible to experience sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days, which usually improves over time.

How long does it last and how many sessions are needed?

The duration of the treatment and number of sessions depend on the severity of the periodontal disease. It is often divided into areas or quadrants of the mouth and may require more than one visit to complete the deep cleaning.