Scaling & Rooth Planing
What is a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
A scaling and root planing is sometimes called a deep cleaning. The cleaning is done by a registered hygienist who cleans both above and below the gum line. This type of cleaning is often specific to patients who have gum disease. Gum disease causes the soft tissues to separate from the teeth, which leaves craters and pockets between the gums and teeth themselves. In order to clean out this pocketing, we will perform a scaling and root planing cleaning.
Why might a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing be needed?
The main reason for needing a scaling and root planing is because you have gum disease. Over time and without treatment, gum disease can lead to both tooth and underlying bone loss. In order to prevent the disease from progressing, we will clean out the gums of any debris and bacteria. It is important to begin treating gum disease as soon as you are told you have the condition.
Who is a candidate for a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
To determine if you have gum disease, we will perform a gum health check in our office. This involves not only examining the gums, but probing the soft tissues around each tooth. If deep pocketing is found, this could be a sign that you have gum disease. It is important to treat gum disease early on to prevent the problem from getting worse.
What happens during a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing?
The scaling and root planing procedure starts with anesthetic to numb one entire side of your mouth. The hygienist will then use special tools to clear debris from both above and below the gum line. Cleaning out these pockets can help to prevent the disease from getting worse. Any exposed roots of the teeth are smoothed to help the gums heal more closely to them. You will then need to come back in to have the other side of your mouth treated in the exact same manner.
If you think you might benefit from a scaling and root planing, contact us today to schedule an appointment.