Scaling

A technique of root surface debridement designed to remove tartar from the dentin and cementum areas of a tooth just below the crown of enamel.

Unless the dental professional is equipped with a Perioscope (periodontal endoscope), removal of tartar is as shown in the diagram to the right. This procedure is done in the "blind" as the dental clinician cannot see the tartar being scraped.

This procedure is problematic as they cannot be certain that all the tartar is being removed. In fact, all tartar cannot be removed by scaling procedures by definition, as tartar present in the dentin area has roots under the dentin due to the porous nature of that tooth surface.

Destructive microscopic anaerobic bacteria still remain in the tartar that is left, so although there are improvements made in the periodontal condition, it is not complete.

Periogen usage completely dissolves tartar from these areas, including the porous regions, providing for enhanced recovery from periodontitis.