The goal of scaling and root planing is to remove etiologic factors that can lead to inflammation of the gingiva and jawbone. Common etiologic factors removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of finding a dentist or hygienist near you that accepts your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gum pockets, work effectively for patients experiencing gingivitis or even severe periodontitis.
Why you might need scaling/root planingDeep cleaning can be used both as a preventative procedure and as a stand-alone service. Scaling and root planing is performed as prevention for a periodontitis sufferer.
Here are some reasons why these dental procedures may be necessary:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps remove plaque and tartar from tooth roots and below the gumline. On top of that, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When gingival pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontitis. As gingival pockets become deeper, they tend to house more dangerous bacteria. Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy jawbone and gum tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is the main cause of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The oral bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel via the blood vessels to other parts of the body. Research has shown that heart disease and lung infections have been linked to harmful oral bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and halts periodontal disease from progressing, thus preventing the infection from spreading to other organs of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontitis is halitosis or bad breath. Food particles and bacteria can cause a bad odor in the oral cavity which is alleviated with treatments such as scaling and root planing.
To reverse the signs of gum disease and improve your oral health, visit Doctors Network. An experienced dentist or hygienist can treat swollen and bleeding gums effectively.
According to the current condition of the gingival, the extent of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the progression of the gum disease, local or topical anesthetic may be administered.
ScalingThis part of the procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling device. The scaling instrument removes calculus and plaque from the root as well as the crown surfaces. In most cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can be used to administer an antibacterial agent below the gumlines to reduce oral bacteria.
Root PlaningThis part of the procedure is the treatment to remove the surface dentin and cementum that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, calculus, and toxins. The root of the tooth is smoothed in order to promote healing. Having smooth root surfaces prevents micro-organisms from easily colonizing in the future.
After these deep cleaning procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will reduce irritation and help the gums to heal quickly.
During your next follow up appointment, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gingival tissues again to see how they have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional treatments may be advised.
Please ask Dr. Pooria Shahin DDS, your dentist at 1st Impression Dental if you have any questions about deep cleaning in downtown Brooklyn, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Fort Greene, or any other parts of Brooklyn.
