Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a process used to prevent the spreading of  and a source of treatment for periodontal disease.  Gum disease is caused by plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth.  If the plaque isn't removed, it can become tartar which is much harder.  If the plaque or tartar are not removed, your gums become inflamed which causes the gums to pull away from your tooth structure.  These spaces in between your tooth and your gums are called pockets.  Once these pockets form, plaque and tartar can get into the pockets and cannot be removed by regular toothbrushing.  Now the bacteria is below your gum line and can attack the bone that holds your teeth in place.  It can cause bone loss,  loose teeth, and even the loss of teeth.


If the pockets between your teeth and gum line are too deep you will need to have "Scaling and Root Planing."  This type of cleaning involves two parts.  Scaling is when the hygienist or doctor removes all the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.  They will remove all the bacteria down to the bottom of your pocket.  Next is the root planing portion of the treatment.  This involves smoothing the tooth roots to allow your gums to reattach to your teeth.


We can most often due a full mouth scaling and root planing appointment; however, sometimes it might two appointments due to the amount of tartar and plaque or perhaps your insurance dictates that it be done in two appointments.  Dr. Luong will most likely use a local anesthetic to make you comfortable during this treatment.


We also recommend a Sonicare electric toothbrush to help care and maintain your teeth.  Also a prescription type of fluoride toothpaste called Prevident.  Once all the plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth, they can become sensitive and the Prevident helps with the teeth sensitivity.  Chlorhexidine mouth rinse is also recommended.  This is an anti-microbial to help  flush those deep pockets and prevent the bacteria from attacking tissue and the bone under the gumline.


Your next appointment will be scheduled in three months.  The hygienist will check to see how the healing process is going and also polish your teeth above the gumline.  They will also determine the frequency of your next appointments.  These appointments are classified and periomaintence appointments and are usually every three to four months. Remember periodontal disease can be controlled; however, once you have been diagnosed with this disease it can be maintained but not cured.  You will always have it and that is why you need to be seen more frequently.


Please like and follow our blog.  We will be discussing all things dental in our various blogs.  If you would like us to discuss a specific topic, please let us know.  Our wish is to educate and in turn make our patients more comfortable when coming to Care Dental Spa.  Our goal is to make you and your family patients for life. For More information Please visit - https://www.caredentalspa.com/common-procedures.php

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Crowns

  Crowns are caps that are placed on top of teeth that are damaged due to decay, broken teeth, birth defects and when endodontic treatment has been done.   Crowns are full cover restorations that cover, protect and in turn restore the shape of your teeth.   Crowns can be made from a variety of substances including metal, procelain, resin and ceramic materials.   Dr. Luong does not use stainless steel crowns as they are normally used as a temporary repair and are usually done on children under the age of 6 and done on their primary teeth.   He does use gold crowns, especially if a patient grinds his/hers teeth.   Gold crown are usually more expensive and we normally have to call the lab to find out the cost of gold on that date.   Many Insurance companies will not pay for the added cost of gold; therefore, it is passed on to the patient portion of the procedure. But if the crown lasts longer, even with the grinding, the long term cost outweighs the init...
Read more

Prophylaxis

  A dental prophylaxis or teeth cleaning is a procedure that is normally done by our hygienist. The hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth and this is a preventative measure to stop the progression of periodontal disease and/or gingivitis. Normally most patients come every six months for their prophylaxis; however, some come more often due to periodontal issues, medical conditions (diabetes or autoimmune conditions) or the buildup of plaque occurs quicker than the norm. Once our patient is seated, our hygienist will go over their medical history. Certain medications can cause a dry mouth, which can affect your oral hygiene. Medical conditions and medications can also affect your oral health. Then a quick physical and visual exam of your mouth and neck is done to screen for oral cancer and anything that is evident. Radiographs are taken to assist in finding any oral problems that are not visible to the naked eye, such as decay or abscesses under the gumline. Perio probing i...
Read more

Endodontic Treatment AKA Root Canals

  Endodontic treatment is the treatment done by our general dentist, Dr. Luong.   It is the treatment of the soft pulp tissue inside the tooth.   It is usually done to save a tooth that would be extracted.   A root canal is needed when the pulp, which is the inside layer of the tooth or the canals which hold the pulp becomes inflamed and/or infected.   Most patients will experience throbbing pain that keeps them awake at night.   They might also have sensitivity to hot , cold and pressure.   There can also be swelling.   When a patient experiences the above symptoms, it is not uncommon for Dr. Luong to order a round of antibiotics to initially treat the infection.  The antibiotics not only treat the infection, but it helps with the inflammation and in turn expedites the numbing process to get the patient comfortable for their treatment. When you arrive at our dental office in Temple, Texas , you are checked in and asked to take a seat and...
Read more