According to the American Academy of Periodontology, topical antibiotic treatment may be used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. Every person has different needs based on their particular situation, so be sure to talk to your dental professional about using these antibiotics as part of your course of treatment; he or she will determine if they are a good fit for you.
Scaling and Root Planing
Non Surgical Periodontal Therapy also known as scaling and root planing or “a deep cleaning” is often recommended as the first step in periodontal therapy. Treatment is done by one of our hygienists using local anesthesia to provide comfort for the patient as the root surfaces in deep periodontal pockets are debrided to remove calculus or “tartar” and to smooth the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins. This may take more than one visit with the hygienist and is followed up with a visit with Dr. Britten in four to six weeks to reevaluate the periodontal tissues.
Periodontal Maintenance
A Periodontal Maintenance is a procedure that includes removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, all the way down the length of each tooth to where the root, gum and bone meet. Rough areas are smoothed out if needed, pocket depths are carefully monitored and inflamed pockets may be irrigated with antibacterial medications if necessary.
If you have periodontal disease which has resulted in bone loss, gum “pockets” deeper than 4 mm, bleeding gums, exposed root surfaces, or if you have had periodontal surgery or root planning, it is important to alternate cleanings between our office and your general dentist. Your general dentist will keep an eye on your teeth, while we focus mainly on the foundation around them. Periodontal Maintenance is one of the most critical factors in maximizing the longevity of the results received after scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery.
We are often asked, “What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a periodontal maintenance?” A Regular cleaning, or “prophylaxis,” is different because the hygienist removes soft plaque, tartar and stains from the teeth above the gumline and only slightly below. A regular cleaning is done with your general dentist 2 to 3 times per year depending on how quickly stain, plaque and tartar accumulate.
How scaling and root planing procedures can help treat gum diseaseThe human mouth is filled with bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucous and other particles form a sticky film called plaque is constantly forming and which adheres to the teeth. This plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing. When the plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, the bacteria involved become more harmful, and more difficult to remove, creating an environment that is more toxic to the tissue. The plaque itself can harden creating a cement like substance (calculus) that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone.
Your gum tissue does not attach directly to your teeth. There is a space or pocket between the gum and the tooth before it attaches. The pocket gets deeper when plaque, tartar and inflammation are present. This leads to inflammation and gum disease. The gums become irritated and begin to separate from the tooth, creating a periodontal pocket.
The bacteria and infection causing the detachment needs to be addressed.
Scaling and Root Planing
Non Surgical Periodontal Therapy includes a very important option known as scaling and root planing or “a deep cleaning” This is often recommended as the first step in periodontal therapy. Treatment is usually done by one of our hygienists using local anesthesia to provide comfort for the patient as the root surfaces in deep periodontal pockets are debrided to remove calculus or “tartar” and to smooth the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins. This may take more than one visit with the hygienist and is followed up with a visit with Dr. Britten in four to six weeks to evaluate the periodontal tissues.
If you have any questions about gum disease or its treatments, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.
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www.brittenperio.com
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