Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Tooth Cleaning Below the Gums to Treat Bone Loss and Pockets.
When bacterial accumulations and inflammation cause bone loss around the teeth, a diagnosis of periodontal disease is made. The bone loss creates periodontal pockets that are too deep to clean by routine oral hygiene methods. A standard one-hour routine cleaning does not allow enough time to effectively clean deep pockets. Scaling and root planing is usually completed in two appointments, half the mouth at a time. A local anesthetic will be used to allow the hygienist to get deep below the gum line and clean the pockets while still ensuring that the patient is comfortable.