Deep Teeth Cleaning

The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually through a deep cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove dental plaque and tartar or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment or a preventative measure. They are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.

What Do the Procedures Entail?

At Southern Maine Family Dental, we will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of your mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining your mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, we may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.

Scaling:

When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.

Root Planing:

Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.

After your procedure, antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbial mouth rinses may be recommended to help control the regrowth of bacteria.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

If treatment is successful, scaling and root planing can help prevent periodontal disease.

Research has proven that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing remove the bacteria that cause these conditions.

Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, eventually causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body which destropys gingival and bone tissue. This leads to tooth loss.

Finally, scaling and root planing may make the more more aesthetically pleasing, and should reduce bad breath caused from food particles and bacteria in the oral caivty. Superficial stains on the teeth will be removed during scaling and root planing, adding an extra bonus to the procedure.