What is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is often referred to as a deep cleaning because it works to remove buildup from above and below the gum line. Periodontal cleanings are specific to patients who have gum disease. When gum disease develops, small pockets will form around the teeth as the gums separate from the teeth themselves. In order to keep these gingival pockets clean and prevent further progression of the disease, a scaling and root planing is essential.
Why would a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing be needed?
The main reason for needing a scaling and root planing is because you have mild to moderate gum disease. Over time and without treatment, gum disease can lead to both tooth and underlying jawbone loss. This can cause the need for extractions, bone grafting, implants and dentures. To prevent gum disease from progressing to this point, a scaling and root planing is needed.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
Gum disease often presents itself as red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing and flossing. You might have persistent bad breath no matter how many pieces of gum and mints you chew. In the office, we check for gum disease by probing the soft tissue around the teeth. If deep pocketing is found, we’ll recommend that you have a scaling and root planing performed.
What happens during a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
The cleaning starts by numbing one whole side of the mouth. Our licensed and registered dental hygienist will then use special tools, known as scalers, to deep clean around the top of the teeth and slightly below the gum line. The hygienist is removing heavy buildup and tartar from these areas, which can infect the gums and cause the disease to progress further. The roots of the tooth underneath the gum line are smoothed so that the gums can heal closely to them, closing off the pocketing that has formed. You will then be scheduled to come back in for the other side of your mouth to be treated and cleaned.
If you would like to learn more about scaling and root planing cleanings, call us today so that we can get you into our office for an exam as soon as possible.