Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing
What is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, properly known as a scaling and root planing, involves cleaning both the surface of the teeth and below the gum line. It is often necessary for patients who have gum disease, as the disease causes pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets can become a breeding ground for plaque and bacteria. In order to clear out these pockets, a deeper cleaning is necessary.
Why is a Deep Cleaning needed?
The reason a deep cleaning may be needed is because you have gum disease. When gum disease occurs, small pockets form between the teeth themselves and the gums. Over time, the gums continue to separate from the teeth. Deep cleanings help to clear out these pockets of debris and plaque to prevent the progression of gum disease. The cleaning is often done in two consecutive appointments, so that only one side of the mouth is numbed.
Who is a good candidate for a Scaling and Root Planing?
We can examine your gums for signs of gingivitis and gum disease during each of your bi-annual appointments. Most people who have gum disease will benefit from a scaling and root planing. There are other periodontal treatments available if you have more advanced gum disease that wouldn’t improve from a simple deep cleaning. Because the procedure is easy and requires only local anesthetic, many of our patients prefer it to other periodontal treatments.
What happens during a Scaling and Root Planing?
We first administer a local anesthetic to the area being treated. We then work to scale the teeth and remove plaque, tartar, stains, and heavy buildup. We next work deeper into the gum pockets to remove any debris that’s found. Once the debris has been cleared, we smooth the roots of the teeth so that the gums are able to heal more closely to the teeth, helping to close up these pockets. You will then be scheduled for a second appointment so that the same treatment can be performed on the other side of the mouth.
If you think you may need a scaling and root planing, or want to know more about this procedure, call us today and our friendly staff members can further assist you.
