Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling & Root Planing
The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly preformed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
What do the procedures entail?
Dr. Cho will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Cho may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.
Scaling
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Cho may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Cho to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.
Benefits of Treatment
If treatment is successful, scaling and planing may have many periodontal benefits. One is that it can help prevent disease. Research has proven that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the blood stream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria that cause these conditions.
Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, eventually causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue. This leads to tooth loss.
Finally, scaling and root planing may make the mouth more aesthetically pleasing, and should reduce bad breath caused from food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Superficial stains on the teeth will be removed during scaling and planing, adding an extra bonus to the procedures.
Top Rated Dentists in Carlsbad
Jessica Grimmett2021-09-16I was very impressed with Dr Cho and his staff! Very organized and efficient. Ashleigh is amazing! Totally on top of everything. I had crown lengthening done and the experience was great! No pain at all and Dr Cho walked me through everything so I knew what was happening and what to expect next. Ariel and Dr Cho work great together! They gave me post op instructions verbally and Ashleigh also gave me instructions on paper so I know how to care for the area when I get home. I will definitely refer my friends and family to Dr Cho in the future!
Lafave Silver2021-08-05I am so happy with my results after Dr. Cho performed a gum surgery on me to fix my gummy smile. He made the process fast and painless and made sure to explain everything thoroughly to me. I would definitely recommend visiting his office!
Cyndy Hamasaki2021-02-06As the wife of a retired Dentist, I am fortunately accustomed to excellent dental care. Dr. William Cho and his entire staff exceeded my expectations and exemplify the very best of outstanding periodontal care. Dr. Cho is not only well trained, he strives to care for all his patients with outstanding and diligent skills explaining each step of every periodontal procedure. I recommend Dr. Cho with the highest of accolades possible. Thank you Dr. Cho! Cyndy Hamasaki
Pantelis Vassilakis (acousticslab)2021-02-04Dr. Cho was thorough, quick, clear, and direct in his exam and assessment of our daughter, visiting for a possible labial frenectomy. He has earned our full trust. Highly recommended. The front office is efficient as courteous. The entire operation is a caring, effective, and efficient well-oiled medical machine :-). Congrats!
Kirsten Davis2021-01-21I have been going to Dr. Cho for at least the last 5 years, and I highly recommend him and his practice to everyone I know who's looking for a quality periodontist. After many years of getting the run-around or getting too short "perio quadrant scaling cleanings" from traveling periodontists working with NO oversight from the dental providers they partner with, I finally realized that I needed to find someone with extra expertise and integrity. I feel Dr. Cho has both. I have had regular cleanings, deep cleanings and 1 implant surgery with him. Very happy with his care!
Elmer Catapang2021-01-08Dr. Cho is a very professional and knowledgeable periodontist. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Diane Hanson2020-12-23Dr. Cho has been with me thru the years. He always is helpful and give great advise as well as referrals. I know I can count on him as I have for over a decade.
JT “Answerman20000” Y2020-12-01Dr. Cho cares about each patient and recommends the right procedure and considers the cost to the patient. His work is thorough and answers all questions asked. He also asks questions to understand why they are visiting his practice and any background before making any recommendation. He made me feel very comfortable and I felt he was the Periodontist for me..
Dr Cho Is An Implant Specialist
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