Time
45-60 mins
Pain Level
Sensitivity
Anesthesia
Required
Recovery
1-2 days
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT ROOT SURFACE DEBRIDEMENT
Root surface debridement is a professional periodontal treatment used to remove plaque, tartar (calculus) and bacteria from the tooth surfaces, including areas below the gum line. It is commonly recommended when plaque and calculus have built up around the teeth and are contributing to gum inflammation or periodontal disease.
Unlike a routine dental hygiene appointment, root surface debridement focuses on cleaning areas that may be difficult to reach with normal brushing and flossing. Removing these deposits helps create a cleaner tooth surface and allows the gums to heal more effectively. At Carling Dental, your gums and teeth are assessed before treatment to determine the areas that require deeper cleaning. The treatment may be carried out over one or more appointments depending on the amount of calculus, the condition of your gums and the areas that need to be treated.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY DO I NEED ROOT SURFACE DEBRIDEMENT INSTEAD OF HYGIENE APPOINTMENT?
A routine hygiene appointment generally focuses on removing plaque and calculus from accessible areas above and around the gum line. Root surface debridement is used when deposits have accumulated deeper around the teeth, particularly in areas affected by gum disease.
WILL MY TEETH FEEL SENSITIVE AFTER CLEANING?
Some temporary sensitivity is possible, particularly if calculus has been covering areas of the tooth root that become exposed after cleaning. This usually settles as the gums heal and the teeth adjust.
CAN ROOT SURFACE DEBRIDEMENT TREAT GUM DISEASE?
It is an important part of managing periodontal disease, as it removes bacterial deposits and calculus from areas that are difficult to clean at home. However, long-term gum health also depends on effective daily oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance.
CAN I PREVENT NOT NEEDING ROOT SURFACE DEBRIDEMENT?
Good daily oral hygiene can reduce the build-up of plaque and calculus. Brushing twice daily, cleaning between your teeth and attending regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments can all help maintain healthy gums.
