The purpose of deep cleaning is to mechanically remove harmful factors that cause inflammation of the gum and surrounding bone. Common harmful factors removed by this preventative periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of searching for a periodontist or dentist near you who accepts your insurance.
These periodontal procedures which completely cleanse the gingival pockets, work effectively for patients suffering from gingivitis and/or moderate to severe periodontal disease.
Why you might need scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing can be used both as a prophylactic measure as well as a stand-alone treatment. Scaling and root planing is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontitis.
Here are some reasons why these dental procedures may be helpful:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps clean off plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline. Additionally, if superficial stains are on the teeth, they will be cleaned during the process of the deep cleaning procedure. - Tooth protection
When gum pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is an increased risk of periodontal disease. As pockets become deeper, they house more harmful bacteria. Ultimately, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy jawbone and gum tissue which may cause 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 through the blood to other parts of the body. Research shows that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to harmful oral bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and prevents periodontitis from progressing, thus preventing the infectious bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable signs of periodontal disease is bad breath. Bacteria and decaying food can cause a persistent bad odor in the mouth which can easily be alleviated with procedures such as deep cleaning.
To learn about the best treatments for gum disease, visit Doctors Network.
Depending on the current condition of the gums, the extent of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthesia may be administered.
Scaling
This procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool removes plaque and tartar from the root as well as the crown surfaces. Most of the time, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can be used to administer an antimicrobial agent below the gumlines to 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 embedded with harmful microorganisms, tartar, and toxins. The root of the tooth is mechanically smoothed in order to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth root surfaces prevents bacteria from colonizing in the future.
After the procedure, the periodontal pockets may be treated with antimicrobial agents. This will alleviate inflammation and irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
On your next follow-up appointment, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how they have healed. If the gum pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, more aggressive treatments may be recommended.
If you have any concerns or 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.
