Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment usually recommended during a diagnosis of periodontal disease.
The early treatment of periodontal disease can prevent irrevocable damage... Make an appointment quickly and prevent the spread of bacteria!
Periodontal disease
Dental plaque that accumulates in the mouth contains microbes. Inadequately cleaned, it can solidify into calculations (tartar) that are difficult to remove. These bacteria affect the gums by causing detachment of tissue from the teeth, resulting in the formation of periodontal pockets.
Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease, affects only the gingival tissues and is completely reversible if it is detected and treated early. If this is not the case, it may progress in the deeper tissues. Many patients with advanced gingivitis or periodontal disease experience bleeding and gum pain when using a toothbrush and dental floss or when they are eating.
Periodontal disease, on the other hand, occurs when bacteria present under the gums produce toxins that cause the body to destroy the bone that supports the teeth, proportionally to the depth of the periodontal pockets. It is an oral disease that cannot be cured; However, if detected early and treated in time, it is possible to stop its progression and prevent further bone and dental loss.
Untreated periodontal disease can cause irreversible loss of bones and teeth. As a result, a scaling and root planing treatment is more effective in the early stages of periodontal disease and can help reduce the depth of periodontal pockets by two to three millimeters. Do not delay this intervention.
The treatment of periodontitis by scaling and root planing
A scaling and root planing treatment begins with local anesthesia of the area to be treated. The intervention often requires the use of hand instruments and an ultrasonic device to clean the accumulation of plaque and calculus. Your dentist will use them under the gum to purge the roots of the teeth and smooth the rough surfaces. The purpose of this deep cleaning process is to remove the plaque and tartar and to smooth the surface of the teeth in order to facilitate the attachment of the gingival tissues to the teeth
After the scaling and root planing treatment
Patients undergoing a scaling and root planing treatment should take care of their oral health after surgery. Home maintenance is an important part of the healing process: the mouth must not contain food, residue or plaque to prevent bacteria from causing further damage. Effective use of the toothbrush and floss will be required to ensure that the mouth is clean at all times and it will be important to stop using tobacco products; Healing will only be facilitated and the risk of infection reduced.
Finally, after treatment, your dentist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash containing chlorhexidine gluconate to fight bacteria and further reduce the risk of infection.