The purpose of scaling and root planing is to physically remove subgingival factors that can cause inflammation of the gum and bone. Common harmful factors removed by this preventative gum therapy include dental tartar and plaque. Doctors Network (www.doctorsnetwork.com) has streamlined the process of finding a periodontist near you who accepts your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gum pockets, work extremely effectively for patients experiencing gingivitis or gum inflammation and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
Why you might need scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing can be used as a preventative procedure and as a stand-alone service. Deep cleaning is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
Here are some reasons why scaling and root planings may be necessary:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps clean off plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline. On top of that, if stains are on the teeth, they will be removed when getting the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When periodontal pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As gum pockets become deeper, they house more of dangerous bacteria. Sooner or later, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy gum and jaw bone tissue which could cause tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main etiology of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Research has shown that heart disease and lung infections have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and stops periodontitis from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontal disease is bad breath. Bacteria and food particles can cause a bad odor in the oral cavity which can easily be alleviated with procedures such as deep cleaning.
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What does deep cleaning entail?
Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after an examination of the gums and teeth. The dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical exams, and make a clinical diagnosis before recommending or performing these procedures.
According to the condition of the gums, the extent of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthetic may be administered.
Scaling
This procedure is usually performed using special dental instruments and can include an ultrasonic scaling device. The scaling instrument removes plaque and tartar from the enamel surfaces and root surfaces. In many cases, the scaling instrument includes an irrigation process that can be used to administer an antimicrobial agent below the gumlines that can help reduce 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 infected with harmful microorganisms, calculus, and toxins. The root of the tooth is mechanically smoothed to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth root surfaces stops micro-organisms from easily colonizing in the future.
Following this procedure, the gingival pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will alleviate irritation and inflammation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
On your next appointment, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how the pockets have healed. If the pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, more aggressive treatments may be advised.
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