Scaling & Root Planing

WHAT TO EXPECT

Some patients require more than routine preventative tooth and gum cleaning. Deep cleanings, can help alleviate many dental health problems by removing soft or hardened plaque from under the gum line, facilitating the healing of gums, and preventing tooth and bone loss and the spread of gum disease.

HERE ARE SOME SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE:

-Continuous bleeding when brushing and flossing
-Foul odor to your breath that isn’t freshened by mouthwash
-Red, puffy inflamed gums that lack a healthy stippled appearance
-Large black triangles between your teeth which represents bone loss
-Deep pockets where food and bacteria get caught beneath your gums

WHAT TO EXPECT

1-2 appointments

After a full examination and routine dental prophylaxis is completed, accompanied by a full set of dental radiographs and full mouth pocket depth assessment, you will be scheduled to start your quadrant scaling and root planing. We normally suggest to split the procedure up into either two or four appointments, but you and Dr. Plotnick will discuss the pros and cons concerning your specific case.

After full local anesthesia is achieved, a combination of ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers will be used to gently, yet efficiently rid your teeth of this harmful buildup. The procedure typically lasts 45 minutes per quadrant (quarter of your mouth) and all steps will be taken to ensure comfort during the entire procedure. If broken up into two separate appointments, the doctor will prescribe a medicated mouthrinse that is proven to improve healing to your tissues in the week between your appointments.

Once completed, your recall will consist of an appointment in three months to assess pocket depth reduction, overall health of tissue and home maintenance. It is suggested to stay on a three-four month recall for routine dental cleanings until the bacteria is removed, your home care has improved, and pockets have decreased to a manageable depth. We will guide you through every step of the way.

Your gums will THANK YOU for this.