The objective of scaling and root planing is to remove harmful factors that can cause inflammation of the gum and surrounding bone. Common etiologic factors removed by this conventional gum treatment include dental tartar and plaque. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of scheduling an appointment with a periodontist, dentist, or hygienist near you who takes your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the periodontium, work miraculously for individuals suffering from gingivitis or gum inflammation and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
Why you might need scaling/root planing
Scaling and root planing can be used as a prophylactic measure as well as a stand-alone service. This procedure is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
These are some reasons why these dental procedures may be needed:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps clean off tartar and plaque from tooth roots and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed during the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When gingival pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As gum pockets deepen, they house more colonies of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to damage gum and jaw bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is the main etiology of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel in the blood to other organs of the body. Research has shown that heart disease and infections have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Deep cleaning removes these bacteria and stops gum disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from infecting other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontal disease is bad breath. Food and bacteria can cause a foul odor in the mouth which can be alleviated with procedures such as deep cleaning.
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What do scaling and root planing treatments entail?
Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after an examination of the oral cavity and teeth. Your dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical examinations, and make a clinical diagnosis before advising or performing these procedures.
According to the condition of the gingival, the extent of plaque and tartar present, the gingival pocket depths, and the severity of the periodontal disease, local anesthesia may be used.
Scaling
This part of the procedure is usually performed using special dental instruments and can include an ultrasonic scaling device. The scaling device removes tartar and plaque from the root surfaces and the surface of the crown. In many cases, the scaling instrument includes an irrigation process that can also be used to administer an antibacterial agent below the gums to reduce harmful oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This procedure is a specific treatment to remove the surface dentin and cementum that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The root surface of the tooth is literally smoothed to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth root surfaces stops bacteria from colonizing in the future.
Following the procedure, the gingival may be treated with antibiotic agents. This will alleviate inflammation and irritation and help the gum tissues heal quickly.
During the next follow-up appointment, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gums again to see how well they have healed. If the pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, more aggressive treatments may be advised.
If you have any questions about scaling and root planing in Crown Heights, Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, Park Slope, Clinton Hill, or any other parts of Brooklyn, please ask Dr. Pooria Shahin DDS, your dentist at 1st Impression Dental.