Bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.
The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent brushing and flossing, patients can still develop some forms of periodontal disease and once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.
The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure, but they are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease cases.
Our team will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, we may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily building up in the future.
Antibiotics or chemical agents, such as mouth washes, may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases our team may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing. When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for our professionals to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar; therefore, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.
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