About Scaling and Root Planing
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, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease. Please contact Northeast Periodontal Specialists in Worcester, MA to learn more about scaling and root planing treatment.
THE BENEFITS OF 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 bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing removes 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 appealing, and should reduce bad breath caused by 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. If you feel you may need scaling and root planing treatment, please schedule a consultation at Northeast Periodontal Specialists in Worcester, MA.
What Does it Entail?
Our periodontal 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, our periodontists may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.
Scaling:
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces are removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along with 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:
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 literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Northeast Periodontal Specialists Reviews
They have a very friendly staff. They always send you reminders about your appointment and they always start on time. I definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Excellent care. Dr. Rafla is wonderful. The staff is also great!
Patient with Dr Rafla for 25 yrs - After a car accident at 19 yrs old my only option back then was dental bridges. At 40 yrs old with nerve pain & failing bridgework I saw Dr. Rafla for implants.He is a total professional & expert periodontist, as well as kind, caring person. My implants have not failed in 25 yrs. I moved to Maine to retire and when told to see a local periodontist I couldn't start with someone new. I drove 3 hrs back to Worcester, MA for a consult because I trust Dr. Rafla.
Excellent service, the staff and Dr Rafla really cares about you.
I originally came to Dr Rafla in 2021 for an implant. I live in CT and I wasn't able to get an appointment in my area. Dr Rafla was recommended so I called. I got an appointment with a couple days. The implant was perfect and Dr Rafla is amazing. I have a dentist in Connecticut but I continue to see Dr. Rafla every six months for a cleaning and check up. The hygienists do an amazing job. My cleanings at Dr Rafla's office just feel cleaner than my regular dentist. I end up paying out of pocket, but it's worth it for the cleaning and the check up.
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Special Considerations
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, our periodontal specialists 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 periodontal team to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.