When you have periodontal (gum) disease, tiny pockets form around each tooth. These pockets allow plaque, bacteria and debris to become lodged in these areas and cause an infection. Over time, the gums and underlying bone begin to pull away as the infection gets worse. Periodontal scaling and root planing cleanings are done to clean these pockets out and prevent progression of the disease.
This type of cleaning, which is sometimes referred to as a deep cleaning, is necessary when you have gum disease. Gum disease can effectively be treating with routine scaling and root planing performed by a licensed hygienist. Our hygienist uses a series of tools to clean out the gingival pockets and stop the spread of disease. The procedure is normally done in two consecutive appointments with us.
You will come in for an exam prior to being scheduled for a scaling and root planing. Dr. Bhandaru will measure your gums and any pocket that is deeper than 3 mm indicates that you have periodontal disease. Dr. B may then suggest a scaling and root planing, which can help to prevent tooth and bone loss over time. Most patients who have gum disease can and should have a scaling and root planing done as part of their periodontal maintenance.
Local anesthetic will be administered to the areas that need scaling and root planing. The hygienist then uses instruments known as scalers to clean deep into these gingival pockets. The roots of the teeth will then be smoothed to prevent any bacteria from adhering to them. You may need other periodontal maintenance treatment along with routine scaling and root planing. You will then need to come in for a second appointment with us so that we can perform the same cleaning on the other side of the mouth.
After the scaling and root planing is done, also called deep cleaning. The tartar and plaque are removed. In our office we use dental laser to disinfect the pocket. The use of dental laser stops bleeding immediately. It helps decrease the amount of bacteria that causes periodontal disease. This gives you a chance to get a better control of your gum disease.
Dental ozone has various benefits. It is used to decrease sensitivity of teeth. If you have an ulcer, ozone helps the area heal faster. I desensitize the teeth that receive fillings, this not only helps the fillings not to be sensitive but also helps disinfect the tooth before receiving the filling
The best application of ozone is when it is used after scaling and root planing. The ozone helps reduce the bacterial load of the pocket, and also aids in faster healing and less pain.
If you think you might need to have a scaling and root planing done, call Carrollton Smiles today and we will work to get you in for a conveniently scheduled appointment.
If you're ready to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bhandaru, we invite you to take the next step by clicking the 'Book a Consultation' link below. Alternatively, feel free to email us, and our team will be delighted to assist you in setting up your appointment.
