Scaling and root planing or a “deep cleaning” is a non-surgical periodontal therapy that removes accessible calculus (tartar), bacterial toxins, and etiological agents that cause inflammation to the gum tissue and surrounding bone.
The goal of scaling and root planing is to eliminate disease and return the supporting structures of the teeth to a healthy state that can be maintained by home care and professional maintenance appointments at our office.
The procedure may be done in one or two appointments depending on Dr. Marra and Dr. Layne judgment and the severity of the disease process.
Scaling and root planing begins by first administering a local anesthetic to numb the teeth and the surrounding gum tissues so that the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
Special dental instruments are used to remove the calculus (tartar) and plaque from above and below the gumline. In many cases, a subgingival irrigation can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.
During or following scaling and root planing therapy, Dr. Marra and Dr. Layne may recommend the gum pockets are treated with an antibiotic therapy. This will soothe irritation and promote a faster healing response after therapy.
Dr. Marra and Dr. Layne may recommend that the patient returns about 4-6 weeks after the initial therapy. During this appointment, the Dr. Marra and Dr. Layne or his hygienist will thoroughly examine the gums to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets have not healed to the expected results, additional and more intensive treatments may be indicated.