Root planings is a dental term that refers to the process of removing bacterial plaque and toxins from the surface of the tooth root. The word is spelled as /ruːt ˈpleɪnɪŋz/ and consists of two parts: root and planings. The word root is spelled the same way as the body part, while planings refers to the act of shaping a surface by removing material. When combined, root planings describe the process of cleaning the surface of the tooth root to improve oral health.
Root planing is a dental procedure that is performed to treat gum disease, specifically periodontitis. It is a deep cleaning technique that aims to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the roots of the teeth and smooth out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots.
During root planing, a dental professional, such as a periodontist or dental hygienist, uses specialized instruments to access below the gumline and scrape away the accumulated bacteria, plaque, and tartar. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. It is common for root planing to be carried out in conjunction with scaling, which involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces above the gumline.
The main goal of root planing is to eliminate the bacterial infection and reverse the progression of gum disease. By effectively cleaning the root surfaces, it prevents bacteria from reattaching to the tooth roots and allows the gums to reattach and heal properly. Root planing also helps to reduce inflammation, control periodontal pockets, and promote gum tissue regeneration.
While root planing is primarily used to treat periodontitis, it may also be recommended as a preventive measure for individuals with early signs of gum disease or those at a higher risk of developing it. Regular follow-up appointments and proper oral hygiene practices are crucial after root planing to maintain good oral health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
The word "Root Planings" is composed of two components: "root" and "planings".
1. "Root" refers to the anatomical part of a tooth that is embedded in the jawbone. It functions to anchor the tooth in its socket and connects it to the surrounding tissues.
2. "Planings" is the plural form of the noun "planing", which is derived from the verb "plane". The word "plane" originally comes from the Latin word "planus", meaning "flat" or "level". It refers to the action of smoothing or leveling a surface using a tool called a plane.
Therefore, "Root Planings" is a term used in dentistry to describe the process of smoothing or leveling the root surface of a tooth during a procedure called root planing.