21 Apr What is a Deep Cleaning and How Do I know if I Need It?
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, refers to a common dental procedure used to treat gum disease or periodontitis. During this procedure, your dentist will use scalers to deep clean the tooth enamel surface in the scaling part. In the root planning section, your dentist will use curettes, specially curved dental instruments, to remove diseased tissue and calculus that builds up in the teeth roots below your gum line. Effective deep cleaning helps to slow down and stop gum disease progression and damage, thus making it an essential dental procedure.
How Do You Know if You Need Deep Cleaning?
Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure involving root planing and scaling if they find that your sulcus pockets are 3mm or deeper. These pockets are measured using a probe when you go for a dental examination. The calculus can also be located using x-rays. That said, if you are currently experiencing any of these gum disease symptoms shown below, you need to consider deep cleaning:
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Gum recession
- Pain when flossing or brushing
- Sensitive, red gums
- Gum discoloration
- Tooth pain
- Constant foul breath, regardless of using mouthwash or brushing
The best way to determine whether you need root planing and scaling is to consult your dentist. They will easily do a physical dental exam to identify your issues and recommend an appropriate solution. If you are anxious about possibly having gum disease, then you should schedule a dental exam as soon as possible.
The Scaling and Root Planing Process
The scaling section of the deep cleaning process involves getting rid of the debris and plaque from gum pockets. The dentist will perform a deep clean around your gum line to completely remove accumulated plaque and bacteria. After the scaling, the toot planing procedure will start. This is where the dentist smoothes out the root surfaces of your teeth, allowing for proper connection between the teeth and gums. If you have gum disease, it’s essential to go for regular scaling and root planning.
Conclusion
The scaling and root planning process is a must have procedure for people with gum disease. This procedure is very successful at restoring the healthy condition of both the teeth and the gum line. However, the patient must also ensure they remain diligent and maintain proper dental hygiene after undergoing a deep cleaning procedure.
References: Colgate, Healthline