The goal of scaling and root planing is to physically remove etiologic agents that can cause inflammation of the gum and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional gum therapy include dental calculus or tartar. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of finding a dentist or hygienist near you who takes your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work very miraculously for individuals experiencing gingivitis or gum inflammation and/or moderate to severe periodontitis.
Why you might need scaling/root planing
Deep cleaning can be used as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone service. This procedure is performed as prevention for patients suffering from periodontitis.
Here are some reasons why these dental procedures may be required:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps remove calculus and plaque from the teeth and under the gumline. On top of that, if stains are present on the teeth, they will be cleaned in the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When periodontal pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontitis. As gum pockets deepen, they tend to house more dangerous bacteria. Sooner or later, an inflammatory response by the body begins to destroy gum and jaw bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main etiology of edentulism in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel via the blood vessels to other organs of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Deep cleaning removes these bacteria and halts periodontitis, thus preventing the infectious bacteria from infecting other organs of the body. - Better breath
One of the most common signs of periodontitis is halitosis or bad breath. Food particles and bacteria can cause a bad odor in the oral cavity which can easily be alleviated with treatments such as scaling and root planing.
For maintaining healthy gums, visit Doctors Network where you can seek Brooklyn hygienists and dentists to restore your gum health.
What do scaling and root planing treatments involve?
Deep cleaning procedures are performed after an examination of the gums and teeth. The dentist, will take dental X-rays, perform clinical exams, and make a diagnosis before recommending or performing the scaling and root planing procedures.
Depending on the current condition of the gingival, the extent of plaque and tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the severity of the periodontitis, local or topical anesthetic may be used.
Scaling
This procedure is performed with special dental instruments and can include an ultrasonic cleaning device. The scaling device removes tartar and plaque from the root as well as the crown surfaces. In most cases, the scaling device includes irrigation of the gum tissue that can also be used to administer an antimicrobial agent below the gums to reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This procedure is the treatment to remove the root cementum and dentin that is infected with harmful microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The root surface of the tooth is smoothed to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces stops micro-organisms from colonizing in the future.
Right after this procedure, the gingival pockets may be treated with antibiotic agents. This will reduce inflammation and irritation and help the gums heal quickly.
On your next appointment, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional treatments may be recommended.
If you have any concerns or questions about deep cleaning in Fort Greene, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, or any other parts of Brooklyn, please ask Dr. Pooria Shahin DDS, your dentist at 1st Impression Dental.
