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Routine Cleanings and Deep Cleaning for Optimal Oral Health

Routine cleanings are essential for maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Without them, plaque and bacteria can accumulate, leading to decay. Regular cleanings are often sufficient to prevent further damage. However, some patients may require a deeper cleaning involving scaling and root planing. This procedure removes plaque and tartar below the gumline, helping those with inflammation, bleeding gums, and early signs of gum disease. Without this treatment, patients may suffer tooth or bone loss, necessitating more invasive procedures. Continue reading to learn about the teeth scaling and root planing process and why it might benefit your oral health.

What Is a Deep Cleaning or Scaling and Root Planing?

Patients with early gum disease often need scaling and root planing. During this deep cleaning, a dentist removes hardened plaque.

Woman undergoing a dental scaling procedure

The dentist scales above and below the gumline, reaching deep into pockets where bacteria thrive. Next, the roots are cleaned and smoothed to promote gum reattachment. Bacteria from gum disease can cause gums to recede, and root planing creates optimal conditions for reattachment. This process fosters healing and a healthier mouth overall.

Why Do I Need a Deep Cleaning or Scaling and Root Planing?

Deep dental scaling is necessary when signs of gum disease are present. Symptoms like bleeding when brushing, inflammation, swelling, pain, and redness indicate problems. Early gum disease, such as gingivitis, can develop due to poor hygiene. Inadequate dental checkups and cleanings can lead to excessive plaque, tartar, and bacteria buildup. When bacteria harbor deep beneath the gumline, forming pockets and dissolving the supporting bone, routine cleanings are insufficient. Dentists recommend scaling and root planing to remove embedded bacteria below the surface.

Is Gum Therapy Cleaning at Pure Holistic Dental (Scaling and Root Planing) Non-Invasive?

Yes, gum therapy—also known as scaling and root planing—is a non-invasive procedure. The deep teeth cleaning process takes approximately two hours and can contribute to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Before starting, a dentist will likely apply a topical numbing gel to minimize discomfort. After the procedure, patients may experience some pain, soreness, sensitivity, or swelling. To prevent infection, a dentist may insert antibiotic strips directly into the gums or prescribe a rinse or similar remedy. A follow-up visit will be necessary in about a month to evaluate the gums, measure pocket depth, and determine if further treatment is needed.

Will the Process Be Effective?

Gum therapy or scaling and root planing is designed to treat early gum disease. It reaches bacteria that regular cleanings and standard brushing cannot, making it an excellent choice for combating early-stage gum disease. This widely used method has helped patients achieve better oral health by addressing gum irritation and preventing future damage. Reducing gum bacteria lowers the risk of heart attacks, strokes, Alzheimer’s, and immune diseases. Additionally, it helps prevent teeth from becoming loose and falling out in old age.

Stop the Progression of Gum Disease Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of early gum disease, it’s not too late to take action. Gum therapy or scaling and root planing is a viable option for those needing more than routine cleaning. Once the procedure is performed, gums can begin to heal and reattach to teeth. Avoiding necessary dental work can lead to more significant health problems down the line.