Scaling and Root Planing(Deep Cleaning)

The purpose of scaling and root planing is to physically remove subgingival agents that cause inflammation to the gingiva and surrounding jawbone. Common etiologic agents removed by this preventative gum therapy include dental tartar or calculus.

These periodontal procedures which thoroughly cleanse the gingival pockets, work very effectively for Brooklyn patients experiencing gingivitis or gum inflammation and/or moderate to severe periodontal disease.

Scaling and root planing can be used as a preventative procedure and as a stand-alone service. Deep cleaning is performed as a preventative measure for patients suffering from periodontal disease

These are a few reasons why these dental procedures may be needed:

• Tooth protection - When gingival pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is an increased risk of periodontitis. As gingival pockets become deeper, they house more harmful bacteria. Ultimately, an inflammatory response by the body begins to damage jawbone and gum tissue which may cause tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the main etiology of edentulism in the world.
• Aesthetic effects - Scaling and root planing helps clean off calculus and plaque from the teeth and under the gumline. As an added bonus, if stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed during the process of the deep cleaning procedure.
• Better breath - One of the most common signs of periodontitis is halitosis. Bacteria and food particles can cause a persistent bad odor in the mouth which is alleviated with treatments such as a deep cleaning.
• Disease prevention - The oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease can travel through the blood to other parts of the body. Research shows that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to oral bacteria. Deep cleaning removes bacteria and stops periodontal disease from progressing, thus preventing the infectious bacteria from traveling to other organs of the body.

Deep cleaning procedures in Crown Heights, Brooklyn are only performed after a comprehensive exam of the mouth and teeth. Dr. Shahin, your dentist in Brooklyn, NY, will take dental X-rays, conduct visual exams, and make an accurate evaluation before advising or performing the scaling and root planing procedures.

Depending on the condition of the gums, the extent of tartar present, the gingival pocket depths, and the degree of the gum disease, local anesthesia may be administered.

• Scaling - This part of the procedure is usually performed using special dental instruments and can include an ultrasonic cleaning tool. The scaling instrument removes plaque and calculus from the enamel surfaces and root surfaces. In most cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can be used to administer an antibacterial agent below the gums to reduce harmful oral bacteria.
• Root Planing - This procedure is a specific treatment to remove cementum and surface dentin that is infested with unwanted bacteria, tartar, and toxins. The root surface of the tooth is mechanically smoothed in order to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces prevents bacteria from colonizing in the future.

After these deep cleaning procedures, the gingival may be treated with antibiotic agents. This will reduce inflammation and irritation and help the gums heal quickly.

On your next visit, the Brooklyn dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended.

If you have any questions about deep cleaning or scaling and root planing in downtown Brooklyn, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Fort Greene, or any other parts of Brooklyn, please ask your Brooklyn Dentist.