About Scaling and Root Planing
Typically, the primary treatment for the beginning stages of periodontal disease is a deep, professional gum and tooth cleaning called scaling and root planing. The goal of this nonsurgical procedure is to remove any toxic debris (such as dental plaque, tartar, and calculus), which may cause gingival inflammation and gum disease. Scaling and root planing may be performed as a stand-alone treatment or as a preventive measure. This treatment is often used in cases of gingivitis, as well as moderate to severe periodontal disease.
The Benefits of Treatment
If treatment is successful, scaling and root 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, as when gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. This is due to the ability of bacteria to more successfully colonize in deep pockets, causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body and destroying tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss.
Finally, scaling and root planing can deep clean the teeth and gums, making them more aesthetically appealing and reducing bad breath caused by food particles and bacteria lodged in the oral cavities. Superficial stains can also be removed during scaling and root planing, adding to the final result.
What Does it Entail?
Dr. Ramirez will perform scaling and root planing after completing a thorough examination of the mouth. This examination typically includes x-rays and visual assessment of the teeth and gums. Treatment will be recommended based on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis. In most cases, local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and the treatment is performed in stages.
Scaling:
Calculus and plaque, two common buildups that attach to the surface of the teeth, are removed during scaling. This process specifically targets the area just below the gumline along with the root. The treatment is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaler. The tool often includes an irrigating process that delivers an antimicrobial agent beneath the gumline, helping to reduce bacteria.
Root Planing:
Root planing removes cementum and surface dentin that is typically embedded in the teeth and gums among unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. During this process, the root of the tooth is smoothed to promote healing and prevent bacteria from easily growing in the future.
NobelPerio Reviews
very helpful and friendly.
Dr. Diego Rodriguez and his staff were absolutely comforting. He walked me through his process and made sure I felt comfortable the whole way.
Overall, very satisfied.Worth noting.............Jamie gave the post op instructions a little faster than I could process,. bur otherwise I was very impressed with her as she did answer my questions.. She was also very personable. "Amber" was sweet, numbing the area/assisting.Dr. Rodriguez was kind and very professional. He put me at ease through the entire procedureNo one was there to greet me at 1:50, when I arrived. I assumed the front staff was on their lunch., but there was no sign on the desk.The receptionist was nice., but did not offer payment options. I was nervous my credit card would be declined!The front staff appeared right at 2:00 for my scheduled appointment. One young woman was dressed very casually. She could have just come from the gym.Once I was checked in, I was seen immediately by Jamie. 😁
Just had deep scale cleaning and a 45 year old bridge removed. Also two teeth extracted!Amber and Dr Schmidt were a fantastic team together!Absolutely no pain was experienced!Thank you both very much for taking care of me
The staff at Nobel Perio is very patient kind and courteous. Linda is very helpful to keep my brushing habits correct.
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Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Special Considerations
The NobelPerio team may recommend a course of antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) to help control the future growth of bacteria that cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Ramirez may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing to control infection and encourage normal healing.
When the pockets between the teeth and gums are too deep, it is difficult for our team to completely remove tartar and plaque. Additionally, patients in these situations can seldom keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Surgery is often required in these instances.