Seven Facts You Should Know About Deep Cleanings, Also Know As “Scaling and Root Planing”

Scaling and Root Planing is a gum treatment procedure that involves the removal of plaque and tartar from teeth using hand-held dental or ultrasonic instruments. Once the plaque and tartar have been removed, the hygienist smooths the roots of the teeth, which helps reduce gum inflammation and restore the health of your smile. Root Planing also eliminates bacteria trapped beneath the gum line and helps prevent it from rebuilding in the same areas.

The hygienists at James M. Moran, DDS, in Fallbrook, California, are specially trained in deep cleaning techniques that effectively restore gum tissue health. Continue reading to learn more about this important dental procedure and how it can help prevent gum disease and tooth loss.

Seven Facts About Scaling and Root Planing

1. Scaling and Root Planing Can Reverse Gingivitis

Initial-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is caused by bacterial plaque building up along the gum line and is most easily controlled with regular hygiene visits and good oral home care. Left untreated, gingivitis becomes more invasive and leads to bleeding gums, swelling gums, and the possible loss of the bone support around the teeth. Scaling and Root Planing are used to treat the more advanced stages of gingivitis. The goal of the treatment is to remove the causes of gum disease (plaque, bacteria, and tartar), stimulate healing of the gums, and hopefully prevent the more serious gum disease process called periodontitis from developing.

2. Scaling and Root Planing Requires Two Office Visits

Generally, two appointments are needed to complete whole-mouth Scaling and Root Planing. However, in some instances, the gum disease is more localized, so the treatment may only require one session. The length of each appointment varies according to the severity of the disease and the number of areas to be treated. Patients can safely drive themselves home after scaling and root planing procedures since only local anesthetics are used to numb the gums.

3. Minimal or No Discomfort

Hygienists use anesthetic agents to numb the tissues and minimize discomfort during scaling and root planing. This numbness usually lingers for a limited time after the procedure. If you have concerns about discomfort during scaling and root planing, Dr. Moran and your hygienist will address them before the procedure to help ease your anxiety.

4. Deep Cleaning Teeth Can Help Lower Systemic Inflammation

Gum disease has been linked to various health problems due to the fact that bacteria from diseased gum tissues readily enter the bloodstream. By removing the bacteria associated with plaque and tartar, Scaling and Root Planing may also reduce the symptoms of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and other systemic inflammatory conditions.

5. Involves the Removal of Granulation Tissue

Granulation tissue, a type of unhealthy tissue, develops in response to severe gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease. This unhealthy tissue contributes to gum tissue breakdown as it swells and becomes painful. Deep cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing) remove diseased granulation tissue and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.

6. Prevents Bone Resorption

Gum disease can cause the breakdown of the supporting bone around the teeth, leading to tooth loss. This loss often results in more complex dental restorative procedures and increased costs. Deep cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing) help to prevent the resorption of the bone that supports the teeth, thus reducing the risk of tooth loss. 

7. Creates a Protective Barrier On Cleaned Tooth Surfaces

After root planing, a layer of protective tissue can form on the treated enamel. Acting as a kind of seal, this layer of tissue shields gum pockets where the bacteria accumulate. The formation of this protective barrier helps prevent the recurrence of gum disease and promotes gum tissue recovery.

Call the office of James M. Moran, DDS, today to schedule an appointment or learn more about scaling and root planing in Fallbrook, CA. If you are a new patient, please call (760) 284-8477 to make an appointment. Existing patients can call (760) 723-4477.

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