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Dentist Office

Deep Teeth Cleaning

The initial stage for the treatment of periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing.

Dentist Chair

What is deep-teeth cleaning?

The initial stage for the treatment of periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment or a preventative measure. They are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease. 

What do the procedures entail?

Dr. Baysa will only perform scaling or root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the situation of the gums, the amount of the tartar present, or the depth of the pockets, and the progression of the periodontitis, Dr. Baysa may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, local anesthesia may be used during the procedure. 

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Scaling: 

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When scaling is performed, calculus and plaques that attach to the tooth surfaces are removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling toolThe scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.

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Root Planing:

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Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.

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Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacterial that creates toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Baysa may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and encourage normal healing.

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When the pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Baysa to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.

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What are the benefits of treatment?

If the treatment is successful, scaling and planing may have many periodontal benefits. One is that it can help prevent disease. Research has proven that the bacteria from periodontal infections can travel to the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria that cause these conditions.

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Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, eventually causing chronic inflammatory responses by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue. This leads to tooth loss.

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Finally, scaling and root planing may make the mouth more aesthetically pleasing and should reduce bad breath caused by food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Superficial stains on the teeth will be removed during scaling and planing, adding an extra bonus to the procedures.

Need help with any dental concerns? Talk to us.

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