Full Mouth Debridement (FMD)

Full mouth debridement vs. root scaling & planing

When plaque and tartar are left on the teeth and around the gums it can cause them to recede creating pockets that allow bacteria to grow leading to gum disease and other conditions. Root scaling and planing would be used in these instances to protect the root of the tooth and secure it to the gums if severe gum recession has taken place.

As a result it is a more intensive procedure that a typical FMD. One of the main goals of root scaling is to reattach the root of the tooth to the gums to help keep it secure.

Do I need scaling and root planing if I get a full mouth debridement?

If you have substantial pockets, your dentist may wish to perform a scaling and root planing procedure in order to close them to prevent further bacterial infections. Pockets in the gumline can work to both create environments prime for bacteria to grow as well as weaken the strength of the tooth which may make it feel looser in the mouth. A FMD can be the first step in a more extensive process in order to properly heal the gums to return your mouth to a healthy state and avoid further decay or potential tooth loss.

How long does full mouth debridement take?

Full mouth debridement typically takes around an hour to perform the procedure and is done using a local anesthetic applied to help numb the area as the dentist scrapes away tartar buildup along the gumline with specialized tools. If there is extensive work that needs to be done your appointment may be broken into multiple different sessions.

Are there any risks to a full mouth debridement?

Full mouth debridement contains very minimal risks to the patient. You may experience bleeding gums as tartar and plaque buildup is removed which is common if oral hygiene and regular cleanings have been neglected for some time. FMD is a non-invasive procedure, so the risks of avoiding a necessary FMD procedure are far greater than any risk of getting it done.