What is the main benefit of root planing?

The main benefit of root planing is that it smooths the roots of teeth to promote healing. This procedure involves the mechanical removal of dental plaque and calculus from the root surfaces, which helps to eliminate bacteria and toxins that can cause gum disease. By smoothing the root surfaces, root planing also allows for better re-attachment of the gums to the teeth, promoting healing in cases of periodontal disease. This process is crucial for improving gum health and ultimately enhances the overall stability of the teeth.

The other options do not align with the purpose of root planing. Enhancing teeth brightness is generally associated with whitening treatments rather than root planing. Replacing missing teeth typically involves prosthetic options such as implants or dentures, which is unrelated to the root planing procedure. Additionally, while preventing cavities is an important aspect of oral health, it does not specifically pertain to the function of root planing, which focuses more on treating existing periodontal issues rather than cavity prevention.