The objective of deep cleaning is to physically remove subgingival factors that can lead to inflammation of the gingival tissue and surrounding jawbone. Common etiologic factors removed by this conventional gum treatment include dental calculus or tartar. Doctors Network, one of the best web applications in 2024, has streamlined the process of finding a periodontist or dentist near you who takes your insurance.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gum pockets, work miraculously for patients experiencing mild gum inflammation and moderate to severe periodontitis.
Why consider scaling and root planing
Deep cleaning can be used both as a prophylactic procedure and as a stand-alone treatment. This procedure is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
Here are some reasons why deep cleanings may be required:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps remove tartar or calculus from tooth roots and under the gumline. On top of that, if yellow or brown stains are on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the deep cleaning procedure. - Tooth protection
When gingival pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is a greater risk of periodontitis. As gum pockets become deeper, they house more colonies of harmful bacteria. Sooner or later, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy jawbone and gum tissue which could lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one etiology of missing teeth in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel via the blood to other organs of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to harmful periodontal bacteria. Deep cleaning removes these bacteria and halts periodontal disease, thus preventing the bacteria from infecting other organs of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontitis is halitosis or bad breath. Bacteria and decaying food can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which can be alleviated with procedures such as deep cleaning.
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What do scaling and root planing treatments entail?
Deep cleaning procedures are only performed after a thorough examination of the oral cavity and teeth. Your dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical examinations, and make a diagnosis before advising or performing these procedures.
According to the current condition of the gingival, the extent of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the degree of the gum disease, local or topical anesthetic may be used.
Scaling
This part of the procedure is performed using special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic scaling device. The scaling device removes plaque and tartar from the root as well as the crown surfaces. Most of the time, the scaling device includes irrigation of the gingival pockets that can also be used to deliver an antibacterial agent below the gums that can help reduce the density of oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This part of the procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove the surface dentin and root cementum that is infested with unwanted microorganisms, calculus, and toxins. The root of the tooth is smoothed to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth and clean root surfaces prevents bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Following this procedure, the periodontal pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will alleviate irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
During the next visit, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gums again to see how they have healed. If the gum pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, additional and more intensive treatments may be advised.
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