The purpose of deep cleaning is to physically remove harmful agents that can cause inflammation of the gum and jawbone. Common harmful agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of searching for a periodontist or dentist near you that takes your insurance.
These periodontal procedures which completely cleanse the periodontium, work extremely miraculously for individuals suffering from mild gum inflammation and even severe periodontal disease.
Reasons for needing deep cleaningScaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative procedure as well as a stand-alone service. Deep cleaning is performed as prevention for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
These are some reasons why these dental procedures may be helpful:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps clean off tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. On top of that, if superficial stains are on the teeth, they will be cleaned in the process of the deep cleaning procedure. - Tooth protection
When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is an increased risk of periodontal disease. As gum pockets deepen, they tend to house more of harmful bacteria. Sooner or later, a chronic inflammatory response by the body begins to damage jawbone and gum tissue which may cause tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main cause of edentulism in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The oral bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel through the blood to other organs of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to harmful oral bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes these bacteria and prevents gum disease, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable signs of periodontal disease is halitosis. Food particles and bacteria can cause a bad odor in the mouth which is alleviated with treatments such as scaling and root planing.
To learn more about the science behind scaling and root planing, visit Doctors Network. Find the best Brooklyn gum specialists.
Depending on the condition of the gingival, the extent of tartar and plaque present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthesia may be administered.
ScalingThis part of the treatment is performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling instrument removes plaque and calculus from the root surfaces and surface of the crown. In many cases, the scaling tool includes irrigation of the gum tissue that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gumlines that can help reduce oral bacteria.
Root PlaningThis procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove the surface dentin and cementum that is infected with unwanted bacteria, calculus, and toxins. The root surface of the tooth is smoothed to promote healing. Having smooth root surfaces stops bacteria from colonizing in the future.
After this procedure, the gum pockets may be treated with antimicrobial agents. This will reduce irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.
On the next visit, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gums again to see how the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure deeper than 3mm, more aggressive treatments may be recommended.
If you have any concerns or questions about scaling and root planing in Crown Heights, Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, Park Slope, Clinton Hill, or any other parts of Brooklyn, please ask Dr. Pooria Shahin DDS, your dentist at 1st Impression Dental.
