Why Do I Need Scaling and Root Planing Instead of a Regular Cleaning?

Wondering what the difference is between a regular dental cleaning procedure and a scaling and root planing procedure? Keeping gum disease at bay is important for all dental patients. Periodontists are dental specialists who focus on preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease.

About periodontists

Thinking about your upcoming scaling and root planing procedure? Periodontists are dental specialists who have additional training in order to help patients experiencing gum-related dental problems. If it is determined that a patient needs scaling and root planning, it simply means they need a deep cleaning rather than a regular cleaning. How often regular cleanings occur depends on each individual patient; regular dental cleanings can be performed every three months, every six months, every nine months or every 12 months.

When scaling and root planing is necessary

The scaling and root planing procedure is for patients who have spaces between their gums and teeth that are too deep for a regular dental cleaning to reach. According to the American Dental Association, plaque gets trapped in these spaces and cannot be removed with regular brushing; if left untreated, it could lead to bone and tooth loss. This condition requires some dental patients to undergo a scaling and root planing procedure to remove any built-up plaque below the gumline. This deep-cleaning procedure also helps remove any bacteria in the mouth, which is important to one's overall oral and general health.

When a regular dental cleaning is necessary

Regular dental cleanings are for patients who only need their teeth cleaned at or above the gumline. This type of dental cleaning procedure should be performed on a regular basis to help maintain the health of one’s gums. This routine dental procedure uses special tools to remove any plaque or tartar buildup on a patient's teeth and helps ensure that the patient's teeth are not going to be negatively affected by any plaque or tartar buildup.

How gum disease can affect one’s health

Dental patients who are diagnosed with gum disease have inflammation and a buildup of bacteria in their mouths. Bacteria and inflammation can certainly cause gum and teeth-related problems, but they can also cause other types of health problems. If left untreated, gum disease will eventually destroy the bone structures that support one's teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss, and has the potential to cause problems for one's general health—including heart disease, diabetes, dementia and rheumatoid arthritis.

Bottom line

Scaling and root planing procedures are often necessary to improve the overall health of a patient's gums. Good gum health is essential to good mouth health, which means patients need to undergo regular dental cleanings. When a patient learns that they are in need of a deep cleaning, it simply means that they are in need of cleaning beneath their gumline. Patients who avoid professional dental cleanings will often experience dental problems, like gum disease and cavities.

Request an appointment here: https://santarosaendodontics.com or call Santa Rosa Endodontics at (707) 409-1177 for an appointment in our Ukiah office.

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