Pre-Clinic II Practice Test

What is the primary difference between scaling and root planing?

Root planing debrides and smooths the root surfaces to facilitate healing; scaling removes calculus and biofilm from tooth surfaces. Root planing debrides and smooths the root surfaces to facilitate healing. Scaling removes calculus and biofilm from tooth surfaces; root planing debrides and smooths the root surfaces to facilitate healing. Root planing uses lasers to remove biofilm.

Correct Answer:

Scaling removes calculus and biofilm from tooth surfaces; root planing debrides and smooths the root surfaces to facilitate healing.

Explanation:

The difference is about what each procedure targets during nonsurgical periodontal cleaning. Scaling removes calculus and biofilm from the tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline. Root planing goes deeper to debride and smooth the root surfaces, removing toxins and irregularities so the root is clean and smooth to promote healing and reattachment of the gum tissue. Lasers aren’t part of standard root planing. So, the best description is that scaling clears deposits on the tooth surfaces, while root planing prepares the root surface itself for healing by smoothing it.

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