We believe...

A patient is the most important visitor. He is not dependent upon us - we are dependent upon him. He is not an outsider - he is part of us. We are not doing him a favor by serving him - he is doing us a favor by giving us the opportunity to do so.

Scaling & Root Planing

The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing, often referred to as a “Deep Cleaning”. 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 does scaling and root planing entail?

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

Scaling:
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is 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 tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing:
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.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Thomas-Moses 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.

Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing Treatment

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

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 a chronic inflammatory response by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue. This leads to tooth loss.

Finally, scaling and root planing may make the mouth more aesthetically pleasing, and should reduce bad breath caused from 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.

PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

Following scaling and root planing, you can expect to notice less redness, less bleeding and less swelling of your gum tissue. Your mouth will taste better and feel better. Your gum health can then be maintained with proper homecare and regular professional care.

DISCOMFORT

Discomfort or pain should not be acute and should subside in a few hours, definitely within a few days. Discomfort immediately after treatment usually subsides in about four hours. Warm salt water will help with the discomfort.

TOOTH SENSITIVITY

Teeth may be sensitive to temperature changes and/or sweets. The sensitivity to temperature may be noticeable following treatment.

BLEEDING

Some slight bleeding may occur during the next several brushings but the bleeding should steadily decrease.

APPEARANCE

As the gums heal they may change their shape around the teeth. This is normal as they tighten.

DISCOMFORT/SENSITIVITY

If a local anesthetic was used avoid chewing foods until feeling returns to avoid injury to the tongue or cheeks. Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen analgesics should be taken as recommended to reduce discomfort. Application of a prescribed fluoride will help control sensitivity.