Risks of Subgingival Scaling

The difference between subgingival scaling and supragingival scaling although both are used to remove dental calculus, subgingival scaling is used to remove calculus below the gum line which can’t be removed with supragingival scaling.

Subgingival scaling is a deep clean beneath the gum line, removing dental calculus and plaque from the dental pockets is essential, if not over time this could lead to serious periodontal disease which could end with a loss of the tooth.  

Risks involved with Subgingival Scaling?

For professional dental cleaning you must make sure you visit a professional clinic or stomatological hospital to carry out the treatment to minimize any risks. There are two types of subgingival scaling, dentist may use either a ultrasonic scaler or hand scaler to remove dental calculus and plaque in the gum pockets to make sure that it’s clean. When a ultrasonic scaler cannot remove all calculus then a hand scaler will also have to be used.  

If subgingival scaling is carried out properly there are no risks and is considered a basic periodontal treatment. Professional periodontists and dentists can carry out the procedure with great skill so there is no need to worry.

Pain After Subgingival Scaling is Normal?

Subgingival scaling is not suitable for all patients, if the patient suffers from coagulopathy (bleeding disorder) and does not have good physical health then subgingival scaling should be avoided or infection preventive measures will have to be in place. Bleeding and soreness after a subgingival scaling is considered normal.

If the gums are already infected and swollen then there will be bleeding and pain, the deeper the gum pocket the further the instrument has to be inserted to remove the calculus and plaque, this will cause more pain. However, local anesthetic can be administered before the scaling is carried out so the patient doesn’t feel pain during the procedure, but after the anesthetic has worn off there will still be some soreness