Periodontal infection is typically a chronic infection that works its way further into the gum and bone over a long period of time. Because the bacteria are organized and different from the normal bacteria in the mouth, and because the bacteria invade the gum and affect the bone, many times conventional/routine cleaning does not serve well to control the infection.

This infection is typically without symptoms, such as pain. However, it can give you signs of infection such as swollen gums, bleeding, bad breath and looseness of teeth.

Scaling and Root Planing

gum disease Dallas

For mild periodontal disease, BC Perio utilizes a way to effectively control periodontal infection and help patients heal in a simple, less invasive and less expensive way. The technique is simply called “scaling and root planing”. The results of this technique have been shown to reduce “pockets” and reduce bleeding.

The “scaling” is typically done using local anesthesia, with very small ultrasonically powered probes (“micro ultrasonics”). This cleaning technique very thoroughly cleans diseased roots and pockets with micro ultrasonic vibrations of the instrument, as well as, with highly energized flushing of water irrigation (patients who are anxious about treatment can elect to be orally or intravenously sedated before the local anesthesia and during the treatment).

Because there are specific bacteria that invade the gum tissue and affect the bone, BC Perio has found that a course of a systemic antibiotic helps to eliminate any bacteria residual to the cleaning. The antibiotic used may vary based on patient tolerances to different medications. When the infection is generalized it is better to use systemic medications (oral pills). However, when the infection is more localized, antibiotic gels may be placed directly into the pocket to provide the disinfection. These local antibiotics work in the gum for over a month as they dissolve.

After the Procedure

Patients typically have little or no discomfort after the initial procedure, and a reevaluation is performed after 6 weeks to check the initial response to treatment. Subsequently, patients are asked to have supportive periodontal treatments at 3-4 month intervals for one year. These treatments are micro ultrasonic cleanings (without anesthesia and without antibiotics) and are performed to support healing by keeping the teeth above and below the gumline as clean as possible. Additionally, we help our patients with their effectiveness in cleaning at home.

After a year, selected x-rays are taken and a reevaluation of the healing response is performed. At that point long term management options are discussed. Sometimes, surgical treatment is recommended. However, BC Perio estimates that, of the teeth that originally have mild infection with pockets and bone loss, over 90% of these teeth no longer require surgical treatment (this is consistent with other published studies).

Periodontics has made great strides in the surgical and non-surgical management of periodontal problems. With this conservative technique, BC Perio has been able to allow many patients to reach periodontal health in a simple, effective, less invasive and more affordable way.

If you have any questions regarding this approach, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Common Questions

What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing (also known as SRP) is a specialized prophylaxis used to treat periodontal (gum) disease. SRP is used to remove tartar accumulation between teeth and below the gum line. This treatment is performed by dentists or dental hygienists as a way to thwart the progression of gum disease.

While SRP is performed at the same appointment, it is actually two different procedures. Scaling is a procedure that removes tartar accumulation beneath the gums and along the roots of teeth. Root planing, although performed alongside scaling, gently smooths the root surfaces of teeth to prevent the attachment of new tartar below the gum line. Scaling and root planing is minimally invasive and effective. SRP is normally performed in increments by dividing the mouth into quadrants.

Is root planing and scaling necessary?

If your oral healthcare provider has recommended that you receive scaling and root planing, it is for good reason. This treatment is one of the most effective ways to stop the progression of gum disease. When gum disease advances, it can destroy your oral health and even affect your overall wellbeing. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, this is a great treatment option for protecting your oral health.

What do you mean by scaling of teeth?

Scaling is a procedure that removes tartar accumulation below the gum line using specialized dental instruments. Since regular home care like brushing and flossing cannot remove tartar accumulation, tartar will ultimately settle beneath the gums. The only way to remedy this situation is to have tartar professionally removed.

What is a deep cleaning of teeth?

Sometimes, people refer to scaling and root planing as a deep cleaning. It is a deep cleaning but it also has a specialized objective. Scaling removes tartar while root planing gently smooths the roots of teeth. These treatments target tartar accumulation by removing it and preventing attachment of new calculus.