332 North York St., Elmhurst, IL 60126
Deep Periodontal Cleaning In Elmhurst, IL
The first step in treating periodontal disease typically involves a comprehensive cleaning procedure known as scaling or root planing. The primary goal of these non-surgical treatments is to eliminate the underlying causes of the disease, such as dental plaque and tartar (calculus), which contribute to gum inflammation and oral health problems. Scaling and root planing can be performed as a standalone treatment or as a preventive measure. These procedures are commonly recommended for individuals with gingivitis or moderate-to-severe periodontal disease.
What is involved in scaling and root planing?
After conducting a comprehensive examination of the mouth, including x-rays and visual inspection, our dentist may suggest scaling and root planing. The recommendation will be based on factors such as the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis. In certain situations, a local anesthesia might be administered during the procedure.
Scaling: Scaling involves the removal of calculus and plaque that adheres to the surfaces of the teeth. This procedure specifically focuses on the region beneath the gum line, near the root. An ultrasonic scaling tool, a specialized dental instrument, is used to perform scaling. Additionally, the scaling tool often incorporates an irrigation process, which can be utilized to administer an antimicrobial agent below the gums, aiding in the reduction of oral bacteria.
Root Planing: Root planing is a dental procedure that aims to eliminate harmful microorganisms, toxins, and tartar from the surface of cementum and dentin. By smoothing the root of the tooth, this treatment facilitates healing and reduces the likelihood of future bacterial colonization.
Antibiotics or anti-microbial irrigation may be advised to control bacterial growth and combat periodontitis. These methods involve using chemical agents or mouth rinses to prevent the formation of toxins that cause the condition. Additionally, our dentist may insert antibiotic fibers into the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing to manage infection and promote proper healing.
In cases where deep pockets form between the teeth and gums, it becomes challenging for our doctor to effectively remove plaque and tartar. Patients typically struggle to keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. As a result, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore periodontal health.
Benefits of Scaling and 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.
