Deep Teeth Cleaning

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 disrupt bacterial colonies and remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and calculus, which may cause gingival inflammation.  Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment for those with mild periodontitis.  Moderate or severe periodontitis may require additional procedures to treat.  These procedures are recommended and completed by a Periodontist for which you will be provided a referral.

What Do the Procedures Entail?

Dr. Russo will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of calculus present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Russo may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.

An animated illustration showing the process of scaling

Scaling:

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 scaler AND hand scalers. Both of these are necessary to achieve the desired result – disruption of bacterial colonies as well as removal of plaque and calculus.

An animated depiction of a root planing procedure

Root Planing:

Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and calculus. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.  This is done simultaneously with scaling. 

Dr Russo understands the importance of periodontal health as well as it’s relationship to overall dental health and prosthetic treatment success long term.  He has a close relationship with local Periodontists whom he refers patients to when managing advanced periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease is a chronic disease process therefore the recommendation for maintenance after successful completion of therapy is 3-4 month recall/cleanings (unlike patient’s without periodontal disease for whom 6 month cleanings are recommended).  Upon completion of therapy it is not uncommon for patient’s to have routine periodontal maintenance/cleaning visits alternate between our office and the Periodontist’s office.

Additional Considerations: 

Untreated periodontal disease deteriorates the bone around the teeth.  Allowing the disease process to progress to the point of tooth failure (tooth loss) may result in prosthetics (replacement teeth) with a compromised aesthetic result or diminished comfort.

There is consistent research that shows a correlation between inflammation in the oral cavity and systemic inflammation.  Research also shows a correlation between untreated periodontal disease and other systemic disease (eg diabetes and heart disease).  Overall oral health may have benefits for patient’s past function and aesthetics.

Untreated periodontal disease can result in halitosis/bad breath.