The purpose of scaling and root planing is to mechanically remove etiologic agents that can lead to inflammation of the gum and surrounding jawbone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal treatment include dental tartar or calculus. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of scheduling an appointment with a dentist or hygienist near you who accepts your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gum pockets, work effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
Why consider deep cleaningScaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative procedure as well as a stand-alone treatment. These procedures are performed as prevention for patients suffering from periodontitis.
These are some reasons why deep cleanings may be helpful:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps clean off tartar and plaque from the teeth and under the gumline. As an added bonus, if stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed during the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When gum pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is an increased risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more of dangerous bacteria. Ultimately, an inflammatory response by the body begins to damage gum and jaw bone tissue which could lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main cause of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic oral bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel in 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 bacteria and prevents periodontal disease, thus preventing the bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis. Bacteria and food particles can cause a bad odor in the mouth which can easily be alleviated with procedures such as scaling and root planing.
If you are looking for scaling and root planing experts in Brooklyn, visit Doctors Network.
Depending on the current condition of the gingival, the extent of tartar present, the gingival pocket depths, and the progression of the periodontitis, novocaine may be used.
ScalingThis procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic cleaning device. The scaling tool removes tartar and plaque from the root as well as the crown surfaces. In most cases, the scaling instrument includes an irrigation process that can be used to administer an antimicrobial agent below the gumlines to reduce oral bacteria.
Root PlaningThis part of the procedure is the treatment that serves to remove the surface dentin and root cementum that is infected with unwanted bacteria, calculus, and toxins. The root of the tooth is smoothed to promote healing. Having smooth and clean root surfaces stops microorganisms from easily colonizing in the future.
After this procedure, the gingival may be treated with antibiotics. This will reduce inflammation and help the gums to heal quickly.
On your next follow-up appointment, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive 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.
