How To Deal With Gingivitis and Periodontitis
The purpose of scaling and root planing is to remove subgingival factors that can lead to inflammation of the gingival tissue and surrounding bone. Common harmful factors removed by this preventative gum treatment include dental calculus and plaque. Doctors Network has streamlined the process of scheduling an appointment with New York cosmetic dentists for dental plaque removal.
These non-surgical procedures which thoroughly cleanse the periodontium, work miraculously for patients experiencing gingivitis and even severe periodontal disease.
Why you might need scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative measure as well as a stand-alone service. Scaling and root planing is performed as prevention for patients suffering from periodontal disease.
These are a few reasons why deep cleanings may be needed:
- Aesthetic effects
Scaling and root planing helps remove tartar and plaque from tooth roots and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are on the teeth, they will be cleaned when getting the scaling and root planing procedure. - Tooth protection
When periodontal pockets are deeper than 3mm, there is an increased risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by blood cells begins to destroy jawbone and gum tissue which may cause tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one etiology of tooth loss in the developed world. - Disease prevention
The oral bacteria that cause periodontal infections can travel in the blood to other organs of the body. Research shows that heart disease and lung infections have been linked to oral bacteria. Deep cleaning removes these bacteria and prevents periodontal disease, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body. - Better breath
One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis or bad breath. Bacteria and food particles can cause a persistent bad odor in the mouth which is alleviated with treatments such as scaling and root planing.
To find out how to manage gingivitis or periodontitis, visit Doctors Network.
What do deel cleaning procedures involve?
Scaling and root planing treatments are performed after an exam of the gums and teeth. Your dentist, will take dental X-rays, conduct clinical examinations, and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning the scaling and root planing procedures.
Based on the current condition of the gums, the amount of calculus present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthesia may be used.
Scaling
This procedure is performed using special dental instruments and might include an ultrasonic cleaning tool. The scaling instrument removes tartar and plaque from the root surfaces and surface of the crown. In most cases, the scaling instrument includes irrigation of the gum tissue that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce the density of oral bacteria.
Root Planing
This part of the procedure is a specific treatment to remove the surface dentin and root cementum that is infected with unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed in order to promote periodontal healing. Having smooth root surfaces stops bacteria from colonizing in the future.
Following this procedure, the gingival pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will reduce inflammation and irritation and help the gums to heal faster.
On the next follow up appointment, the New York dentist or hygienist will carefully examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be suggested.
If you’re in the market for dental care in New York, visit Doctors Network!