Generally, the primary aim of teeth scaling and root planing is to remove the etiologic agents that frequently cause inflammation of the gingival tissue on the gums and also the bone that supports the teeth. The general agents that are removed when scaling is done are the calculi that is made up of tartar and dental plaque.
Periodontal scaling and root planing usually do not require surgery, and they are preferred because of their ability to clean thoroughly the periodontium. The procedures are appropriate to those individuals who are suffering from gum inflammation caused by periodontal infection. Most of the reasons why people choose teeth scaling and root planning are the following:
Tooth protection
Periodontal diseases are mainly caused by gum pockets that have exceeded the 3mm in depth. Deepening of the pockets imply that there is a lot of accumulation of the harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease. The build-up of bacterial colonies causes the body to start an inflammatory response that usually results in the destruction of the bone and the gingival tissue, which consequently leads to tooth loss.
Disease prevention
Through dental research, it has been discovered that the harmful bacteria that cause tooth loss is capable of moving to various parts of the body through the bloodstream. The presence of bacteria in the lungs usually result to lung infection and worse, it can move to the heart which can lead to a heart infection too. Periodontal scaling and root planing may help a person in preventing such infections.
An Improved Appearance
Scaling and root planing are helpful in the removal of the tartar and plaque that usually form on the teeth or below the gum line. The removal helps boost a person’s beauty because of the improved appearance.
Fresh breath
As any dentist will tell you, the leading cause of bad breath is periodontal infection. The bacteria that are responsible for bad breath is removed during scaling hence resulting to fresher breath.
Before a dentist conducts any procedure, he first examines the mouth of the patient. X-rays are sometimes taken to have a visual evaluation before he recommends teeth scaling and root planing treatments. Should you decide on having these procedures, trust only an experienced Newport Beach dentist, like F. Anthony Rich, DDS.
Sources:
Root Planing and Scaling for Gum Disease, WebMD
Dental Scaling and Root Planing Explained, OralB