Periodontics
Deep Teeth Cleaning in Del Mar, CA
The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
At Del Mar View Dental Care, Dr. Charlton carefully evaluates each patient’s oral health before recommending any treatment. Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure, is only performed after a thorough examination of your mouth, which may include taking x-rays and a detailed visual inspection.
Dr. Charlton considers several factors before suggesting this treatment, including the condition of your gums, the amount of tartar buildup, the depth of the periodontal pockets, and the progression of periodontitis. If scaling and root planing is deemed necessary, Dr. Charlton will proceed with the procedure to help manage and treat gum disease. In some cases, local anesthesia may be used to ensure your comfort during the treatment.
This personalized approach ensures that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
At Del Mar View Dental Care, scaling and root planing offer significant periodontal benefits when the treatment is successful. Here are some of the key advantages:
Prevention of Disease:
Scaling and root planing can play a crucial role in preventing not just gum disease but also other serious health conditions. Research has shown that bacteria from periodontal infections can enter the bloodstream and potentially affect other parts of the body, leading to conditions such as heart disease and respiratory issues. By removing these harmful bacteria through scaling and root planing, we help reduce the risk of these systemic health problems.
Protection Against Tooth Loss:
One of the primary benefits of scaling and root planing is its ability to protect against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk of periodontal disease increases significantly. As these pockets deepen, they become breeding grounds for more bacteria, which can trigger a chronic inflammatory response in the body. This response leads to the destruction of gum and bone tissue, eventually resulting in tooth loss. Scaling and root planing help to eliminate these bacteria, reducing pocket depth and preserving the health of your teeth and gums.
Improved Aesthetics and Fresh Breath:
Another benefit of scaling and root planing is the improvement in the overall aesthetics of your mouth. The procedure helps to reduce bad breath caused by food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Additionally, superficial stains on the teeth are removed during the treatment, leaving your teeth looking cleaner and brighter. This added aesthetic enhancement is an extra bonus to the functional benefits of the procedure.
By opting for scaling and root planing at Del Mar View Dental Care, you’re taking an important step toward maintaining not only your oral health but also your overall well-being.