The goal of deep cleaning is to physically remove subgingival factors that can lead to inflammation of the gum and surrounding jawbone. Common harmful factors removed by this effective gum treatment include dental calculus and plaque. Doctors Network has simplified the process of searching for a periodontist or dentist near you who accepts your insurance.
What you need to know about gingivitis is that these non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gum pockets, work extremely effectively for individuals experiencing gingivitis and even severe periodontitis.
Why consider deep cleaningScaling and root planing can be used as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone service. Deep cleaning is performed as prevention for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
These are a few reasons why scaling and root planings may be necessary:
- Aesthetic effects
Deep teeth cleaning helps remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. Additionally, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be cleaned in the process of the deep cleaning procedure. - Tooth protection
When periodontal pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is an increased risk of periodontitis. As gum pockets become deeper, they house more harmful bacteria. Sooner or later, an inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy gum and jaw bone tissue which could cause tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main etiology of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease can travel through the blood to other parts of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to harmful periodontal bacteria. Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and stops periodontal disease, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other organs of the body. - Better breath
One of the most detectable symptoms of periodontitis is halitosis. Food particles and bacteria can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which can be alleviated with treatments such as scaling and root planing.
If you need to explore the best options for gum disease in Brooklyn, visit Doctors Network.
Deep cleaning procedures are performed after a thorough exam of the gums and teeth. The dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct visual exams, and make an accurate evaluation before recommending or performing these procedures.
Depending on the current condition of the gums, the amount of tartar and plaque present, the gingival pocket depths, and the severity of the gum disease, novocaine may be used.
Scaling
This part of the treatment is performed with special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling instrument removes calculus and plaque from the surface of the crown and root surfaces. In most cases, the scaling device includes irrigation of the gingival pockets that can also be used to deliver an antibacterial agent below the gumlines to reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove the surface dentin and root cementum that is infected with unwanted bacteria, toxins, and tartar. The root of the tooth is smoothed in order to promote healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces stops microorganisms from colonizing in the future.
Following the deep cleaning procedures, the gingival pockets may be treated with antibiotic agents. This will reduce irritation and inflammation and help the gums to heal faster.
On your next visit, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gingival tissues again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional treatments may be recommended.
If you have any questions about deep cleaning or 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.