Your risks are much greater not having the scale and root planing procedure if it is determined that you need one. The actual risks during and after the procedure are minor in comparison to avoiding it.
Why would you need a Scale and Root Planing Procedure?
Every single mouth, with no exceptions, has millions of bacteria present daily. If you simply practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, you keep these bacteria in check. If you neglect to brush and allow it to multiple it creates a sticky substance that adheres to your teeth called plaque. This plaque attracts more sugar and acids which immediately attack the enamel of your teeth causing cavities. If the plaque progresses below the gum line it will then quickly infect the soft gum tissue resulting in gum disease. Almost half of American adults have some level of gum disease. The only way to eliminate the gum disease and reverse it is to have the source of the problem removed, which is the plaque on your teeth below the surface.
The Scale and Root Planing Procedure
The process is a manual extension of having your teeth cleaned. Your dentist or hygienist will use either a manual hand tool that scales away the plaque or an ultrasonic instrument with a small vibrating head to chip away the plaque. If the buildup of the plaque is extensive a local anesthetic may be administered to numb the soft tissue and minimize any discomfort. If the plaque has progressed further down the tooth the process continues through root planing. The final objective is a tooth and root surface with the plaque removed and smooth such that it cannot readily stick again.
The Risks involved
If you do not remove the plaque the risk increases for the gum disease, or periodontal disease, to progress causing considerable damage to both the soft tissue, the teeth, the supporting structure, and the bone. This will eventually lead to loosen teeth, bone loss, and your teeth falling out.
The risks that you could encounter are discomfort or a pain that worsens and does not subside. The soft tissue could not heal as expected or you could run a fever. You might have some post-procedural bleeding from your gums, some minor swelling and slight bruising and even a slight increase in sensitivity with your teeth for a few days. The most serious risk might be the advancement of the infection is the procedure was not successful.
The Benefits of the Scale and Root Planing Procedure
The benefits far exceed any risks involved with the procedure. The risks mentioned are short term as your teeth and gums heal. Once healed you again have a healthy mouth. If you now practice the advice of the health industry and brush well twice a day along with flossing daily, you will reduce the amount of plaque sitting on your teeth. If you compliment your efforts with two visits a year to your dentist for consistent preventative examinations, x-rays, and professional teeth cleaning, then you are being proactive in maintaining the health of your mouth.