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Understanding Scaling and Root Planing: Is It the Same as Deep Cleaning?

Overview of dental caries prevention. Dentist examining patient's teeth in clinic.

If you have healthy gums and bones, professionally cleaning your teeth twice a year is often enough. However, trouble can develop if plaque, tartar, and bacteria gather under the gum tissue.

It could mean your gums and jawbone are impacted by periodontal disease. This disease leads to tissue inflammation and loss of the supporting structures around your teeth. When left untreated, it can cause discomfort, bleeding gums, swelling, and more.

Fortunately, there is a treatment that can save your smile. You might need a more intense, deep cleaning to remove this harmful buildup and prevent the disease from getting worse.

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning is the term used for a periodontal treatment called scaling and root planing (SRP). This type of treatment is needed when large amounts of bacteria and tartar collect and fill “pockets” that have formed because of gum disease.

Scaling is when the dental professional removes hard tartar stuck on teeth. Root planing is when the exposed surfaces of the tooth’s root are smoothed, and any infected tooth structure is removed.

This process may require more than one trip to the office, depending on how much scaling and root planing is needed. Half of the mouth is cleaned at each appointment. You’ll be numb, so there won’t be any discomfort.

Sometimes, an additional follow-up visit is also required. At this appointment, the dental team checks your gums and teeth to see whether the pocket depth has gone down.

When Does a Dentist Recommend a Deep Cleaning?

To diagnose periodontal disease, your dentist uses a periodontal probe to measure the spaces separating the teeth and gums. The probe is like a ruler with markings to indicate the depth of the pocket. If the pockets are larger than three millimeters deep and there is bone loss, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing.

Some of the most common signs of needing a deep cleaning include:

  • Gum recession
  • Bleeding gums
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Bone loss
  • Loose teeth
  • Tartar across tooth surfaces
  • Painful gums or teeth

If it’s been years since your teeth were cleaned, your dentist might recommend starting with a scaling and root planing to ensure the hard deposits are fully removed.

When a Regular Cleaning Is Helpful

Traditional dental cleanings are for those needing teeth cleaned above or at the gumline. This procedure is routinely done approximately every six months to help maintain healthy gums.

A dental professional, either the dentist or hygienist, uses special tools to remove debris from your teeth. It helps ensure your teeth aren’t negatively affected by plaque and tartar.

How Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

When you’re diagnosed with periodontal disease, it’s not just bad for your teeth and gums. These bacteria can also cause other health issues. When you ignore the problem, it slowly destroys the bone that holds your teeth in place, leading to tooth loss.

Periodontal disease has also been linked to heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

After a deep cleaning, bacteria, plaque, and tartar will be gone from above and below the gum line. You’ll notice many benefits in the days following treatment.

Eliminates Pain and Discomfort

Untreated periodontal disease leads to uncomfortable symptoms like painful chewing, sore gums, and bleeding. A deep cleaning helps manage the condition and relieve your symptoms. After healing, you should experience minimal discomfort when you eat, brush, or floss.

Eliminates Bad Breath

Bad breath is a sign that you have too much bacteria or tooth damage. Excess plaque and tartar can cause it. After scaling and root planing, the bacteria that causes bad breath is gone. You’ll also fight off oral infection better and have fresher-smelling breath.

Prevents Additional Oral Complications

Scaling and root planing help stop the periodontal infection and keep your gums healthy. If not stopped, the disease will spread. As it spreads, it increases your risk of developing additional oral problems, like tooth loss, jawbone damage, poor bite, and certain cancers.

Prevents General Health Problems

Without intervention, the periodontal infection may spread into the bloodstream and get carried to other parts of the body. This is how it causes heart problems, respiratory issues, dementia, and more. Scaling and root planing stop the spread, contributing to an overall healthy body.

Enhances Your Smile

As you age, plaque and bacteria build up on teeth, giving them a dull, yellow appearance. A deep cleaning removes these deposits to create a brighter, smoother appearance.

Protect Your Health With a Professional Dental Evaluation

If you suspect you have gum disease, don’t delay your phone call to schedule an evaluation. Call Dr. Brett Langston, DMD. Our team will answer your questions about scaling and root planing. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

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