The purpose of scaling and root planing is to remove harmful agents that can cause inflammation of the gum tissue and jawbone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional gum treatment include dental tartar or calculus. Doctors Network can help you understand gum disease and has simplified the process of finding a dentist or hygienist near you who accepts your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work miraculously for individuals experiencing gingivitis and/or even severe periodontal disease.
Why consider deep cleaning
Scaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative procedure and as a stand-alone treatment. Scaling and root planing is performed as a preventative measure for a periodontitis sufferer.
These are a few reasons why scaling and root planings may be required:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. On top of that, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be cleaned in the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When gum pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, an inflammatory response by the body begins to damage gum and bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main etiology of missing teeth in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic oral bacteria that cause periodontitis can travel via the blood vessels to other parts of the body. Research supports that heart disease and lung infections have been linked to harmful periodontal bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes these bacteria and stops periodontitis, thus preventing the infectious bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable signs of periodontal disease is halitosis or bad breath. Food particles and bacteria can cause a foul odor in the oral cavity which can easily be alleviated with treatments such as deep cleaning.
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What do scaling and root planing treatments entail?
Deep cleaning procedures are only performed after a thorough examination of the oral cavity and teeth. Your dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical examinations, and make a diagnosis before advising or performing these procedures.
According to the current condition of the gingival, the extent of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the degree of the gum disease, local or topical anesthetic may be used.
Scaling
This part of the procedure is performed using special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic scaling device. The scaling device removes plaque and tartar from the root as well as the crown surfaces. Most of the time, the scaling device includes irrigation of the gingival pockets that can also be used to deliver an antibacterial agent below the gums that can help reduce the density of oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This part of the procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove the surface dentin and root cementum that is infested with unwanted microorganisms, calculus, and toxins. The root of the tooth is smoothed to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth and clean root surfaces prevents bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Following this procedure, the periodontal pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will alleviate irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
During the next visit, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gums again to see how they have healed. If the gum pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, additional and more intensive treatments may be advised.
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