The objective of scaling and root planing is to remove harmful factors that can cause inflammation of the gum and surrounding bone. Common etiologic factors removed by this conventional gum treatment include dental tartar and plaque. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of scheduling an appointment with a periodontist or dentist near you that takes your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the periodontium, work miraculously for individuals suffering from gingivitis or gum inflammation and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
Why you might need scaling/root planing
Scaling and root planing can be used as a prophylactic measure as well as a stand-alone service. This procedure is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
These are some reasons why these dental procedures may be needed:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps clean off tartar and plaque from tooth roots and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed during the process of the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When gingival pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As gum pockets deepen, they house more colonies of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to damage gum and jaw bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is the main etiology of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel in the blood to other organs of the body. Research has shown that heart disease and infections have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Deep cleaning removes these bacteria and stops gum disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from infecting other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontal disease is bad breath. Food and bacteria can cause a foul odor in the mouth which can be alleviated with procedures such as deep cleaning.
To learn what scaling and root planing is, and how it is performed, visit https://www.doctorsnetwork.com/dentists-new-york-ny.
What do deel cleaning procedures involve?
Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after an examination of the mouth and teeth. Your dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical exams, and make a clinical diagnosis before recommending or performing these procedures.
Depending on the current condition of the gingival, the amount of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the severity of the gum disease, local anesthetic may be administered.
Scaling
This treatment is usually performed using special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic cleaning device. The scaling device removes plaque and calculus from the root as well as the crown surfaces. In most cases, the scaling device includes irrigation of the gingival pockets that can be used to deliver an antibacterial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This part of the procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove the root cementum and dentin that is embedded with harmful microorganisms, calculus, and toxins. The root surface of the tooth is literally smoothed in order to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces prevents microorganisms from easily colonizing in the future.
Following the procedure, the gum pockets may be treated with antimicrobial agents. This will reduce inflammation and help the gum tissues heal quickly.
During the next visit, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gingival tissues again to see how the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended.
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