121 Jericho Turnpike Mineola, NY 11501
The First Step in Treating Periodontal Disease
The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a deep teeth cleaning, which may include scaling, root planing, or both. The goal of these non-surgical procedures is to remove the plaque and tartar, also known as calculus, that cause gum inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment or as a preventative measure, and are commonly recommended for cases ranging from gingivitis to moderate and severe periodontal disease.
Dr. Druz, Dr. Sukiasian, Dr. Weinreb, Dr. Baine, Dr. Joseph or Dr. Gavras will only recommend scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include x-rays and a visual evaluation of your gum health. Patients from Mineola, NY and the surrounding areas of Garden City, New Hyde Park, East Williston and Roslyn Heights come to us for this foundational gum disease treatment.
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The Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning
When treatment is successful, scaling and root planing offer several important benefits for your oral and overall health:
- Helps prevent disease, since research has shown that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes contributing to heart and respiratory conditions. Removing this bacteria at the source helps reduce that risk.
- Protects teeth against tooth loss, since gum pockets deeper than 3 millimeters allow more bacteria to colonize, eventually triggering a chronic inflammatory response that destroys gum and bone tissue and leads to tooth loss.
- Improves the appearance of your smile, since superficial stains on the teeth are removed during the scaling and planing process.
- Reduces bad breath caused by trapped food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity.
Who Needs Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning is typically recommended based on the condition of your gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of your periodontal pockets, and the progression of any existing periodontal disease. You may be a candidate for deep teeth cleaning if you have:
- Been diagnosed with gingivitis or early to moderate periodontal disease
- Gum pockets measuring deeper than 3 millimeters
- Visible tartar buildup below the gumline that a standard cleaning cannot remove
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums identified during a periodontal evaluation
- A history of periodontal disease that requires ongoing preventative care
Our doctors will determine whether scaling and root planing is appropriate for you based on a thorough examination of your mouth.
Scaling and Root Planing, Step by Step
Deep teeth cleaning is performed in two distinct stages, each targeting a different part of the problem:
1
Scaling
Calculus and plaque attached to the tooth surfaces are removed, with particular attention to the area below the gumline along the root. Scaling is performed using a specialized ultrasonic scaling tool, which typically includes an irrigation process to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums and help reduce oral bacteria.
2
Root Planing
The root surface is carefully smoothed to remove cementum and surface dentin embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. This smoothing process promotes healing and helps prevent bacteria from easily recolonizing the area in the future.
3
Antimicrobial Treatment, If Needed
Antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobial agents may be recommended to help control the bacteria responsible for creating toxins and driving periodontal disease.
4
Antibiotic Fiber Placement, If Needed
In some cases, antibiotic fibers may be placed directly into the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing to help control infection and support normal healing.
5
Evaluation for Further Treatment
When deep pockets between the teeth and gums remain difficult to keep clean, even after scaling and root planing, our doctors will discuss whether additional treatment, such as periodontal surgery or laser therapy, is needed to fully restore gum health.
Recovering After Deep Teeth Cleaning
After scaling and root planing, some mild soreness or sensitivity around the gums is normal and typically improves within a few days. Gums may also feel slightly tender to the touch as they begin to heal and reattach more closely to the tooth surface. Maintaining a consistent, gentle oral hygiene routine at home, along with any recommended antimicrobial rinse, supports healing and helps prevent bacteria from recolonizing the treated areas. Our team will schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your progress and determine whether ongoing periodontal maintenance is needed.
Treat Gum Disease at the Source
Deep teeth cleaning is often the most effective first step in restoring gum health and protecting your teeth for the long term. Schedule an evaluation with our team at PM Dental Care in Mineola, NY to find out if scaling and root planing is right for you.
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