How Long Does Four Quadrant Root Planing And Scaling Take?

Posted on Mon, 14 Jul 2014

Question: I am scheduled to have a four quadrant root planing and scaling next week. They told me the appointment would cover all four quadrants and take about an hour. All the literature I've read said this should take something like 4 hours. Whats the deal?

Answered by Dr. Mahesh Kumar T S (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
scaling and root planing, two visits

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your query, i have gone through your query.
Usually the scaling and root planing takes two appointments or sittings. In the first sitting we can go for removal of the deposits over the teeth(supragingival scaling) followed by root planing in the next sitting.
It can also be done in single sitting but it might take around 1.5-2 hours (depending upon the amount of deposits). You have to keep your mouth open for long time, that might cause jaw joint problems following the treatment.
Better to get the scaling and root planing done in two visits.
I hope my answer will help you, take care.
If any queries are there reply me back.

Note: Find out which dental treatment will work best for your teeth. Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D