Scaling and Root Planing
Also written as: SRP — Scaling and Root Planing
A non-surgical periodontal therapy involving the removal of plaque, calculus, and endotoxin-laden cementum from root surfaces to achieve a biologically compatible surface and resolve periodontal inflammation.
Full Definition
Scaling and root planing (SRP) is the foundational non-surgical treatment for chronic periodontitis, performed quadrant by quadrant or by sextant under local anaesthesia. Scaling refers to the removal of hard and soft deposits from root surfaces, while root planing describes the smoothing of the root surface to remove residual calculus and altered cementum. The procedure is coded D4341 (four or more teeth per quadrant) or D4342 (one to three teeth per quadrant) under the CDT system. Editors must ensure 'scaling and root planing' is written in full on first use and not substituted with 'deep cleaning,' which is a colloquial lay term inappropriate for formal clinical documentation or insurance narratives.
Usage
Usage note: Never substitute 'deep cleaning' in formal clinical or insurance documents. Use 'scaling and root planing' in full on first reference; SRP acceptable thereafter.
In Context
- "Scaling and root planing was completed in two appointments, with the maxillary arch treated at the first visit." — Periodontal treatment progress note
- "The insurance claim was denied because 'deep cleaning' had been entered in the narrative field rather than the correct clinical term 'scaling and root planing.'" — Insurance billing audit report