All of the following are performed during root planing EXCEPT one. Which is the EXCEPTION?

Correct answer: A. Removal of calculus from enamel

• A. CORRECT. Root planing is performed SUBGINGIVALLY on the root surface (cementum and dentin). Enamel is the coronal tooth structure above the CEJ — scaling the enamel crown is part of SUPRAGINGIVAL SCALING (prophylaxis), not root planing. Root planing specifically addresses the root surfaces in diseased periodontal pockets.
• B. Removal of calculus from cementum is a primary objective of root planing — calculus embeds in the cementum surface and must be removed.
• C. Dentin may be exposed at the root surface when cementum is stripped; calculus removal from dentin is part of the root planing procedure.
• D. Smoothing the root surface (planing) is the defining action — it removes contaminated cementum and creates a biologically acceptable surface for tissue reattachment.