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 the best periodontist in New York 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.
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What does deep cleaning involve?
Deep cleaning or Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after a comprehensive exam of the mouth and teeth. The dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical exams, and make a clinical evaluation before advising or performing these procedures.
Based on the current condition of the gingival, the amount of calculus present, the depth of the pockets, and the degree of the gum disease, local or topical anesthetic may be used.
Scaling
This treatment is performed using special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic cleaning tool. The scaling tool removes tartar and plaque from the surface of the crown and root surfaces. In most cases, the scaling instrument includes an irrigation process that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This procedure is the treatment that serves to remove the cementum and surface dentin that is infected with harmful bacteria, calculus, and toxins. The root surface of the tooth is smoothed to promote periodontal healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces stops bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Right after the deep cleaning procedure, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will reduce irritation and help the gum tissues heal faster.
During your next visit, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how well they have healed. If the gum pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, additional and more intensive treatments may be suggested.
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