Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing
What is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is sometimes referred to as a deep cleaning because it aims to clear away debris and bacteria from both above and below the gum line. This type of cleaning is often specific to patients who have gum disease. As gum disease progresses, the soft tissues around the teeth separate, causing pocketing to form between the gums and the teeth. In order to clean out these gingival pockets, a deeper cleaning is performed in the office.
Why would a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing be needed?
The most common reason for needing a scaling and root planing is because you have gum disease. Gum disease is an incredibly common condition, affecting almost half of all patients over the age of 30. Unfortunately, when left untreated, the disease can lead to tooth and significant bone loss. The best way to treat gum disease is with a thorough and deep cleaning that can be done by a registered dental hygienist.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
If you have gum disease, your teeth might bleed when brushing and flossing them. You might have bad breath regardless of how much you brush your teeth or mints you chew. In the office, we can check for gum disease with a simple gum health check. This is done by using a simple and painless probe that measures the depth of pocketing around each tooth.
What happens during a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
The procedure begins with anesthetic that is meant to numb one entire side of the mouth. Our hygienist then gets to work at cleaning tartar, buildup and bacteria from above and then from below the gum line. In order for the gums to heal properly against the teeth, the roots are smoothed using special dental instruments. You will be scheduled to come into the office for another appointment so that we can treat the other side of your mouth in a similar manner.
If you think you might need a scaling and root planing, call us today and one of our friendly staff members will be happy to further assist you.
