Deep Teeth Cleaning, Scaling and Root Planing in Louisville, KY & New Albany, IN
Deep teeth cleaning, scaling and root planing, is a procedure involving the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth below the surface, and then smoothing, or planing, the roots, removing more calculus and toxins. Deep teeth cleaning, scaling, and root planing treats chronic periodontal disease, or gum disease. The process is more extensive than a conventional teeth cleaning. Deep teeth cleaning may take more than one dental visit and may require a local anesthetic based on the severity of your gum disease.
The Progressive Levels of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is an oral health issue that can gradually increase in severity. If you develop periodontal disease, it will be in this order:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of periodontitis, gingivitis develops from the bacterial plaque that builds up next to the gums. Gingivitis is evident by sensitive gums that are redder in color and bleed easily. Gingivitis can be reversed with a professional teeth cleaning and improved oral health care habits at home.
- Early Periodontitis: Early periodontitis is indicated by symptoms like gingivitis, just more severe when left untreated. The gums are more sensitive, and brushing can result in excessive bleeding. Early periodontitis will likely require more intensive interventive treatment due to the bone loss that has occurred.
- Advanced Periodontitis: When the bacteria, plaque, and toxins have developed to destroying gum tissue, you have developed advanced periodontitis. If you have gotten to this point you have developed pockets between your gums and teeth, which harbors even more toxic bacteria. These pockets expand causing bone loss and gum recession.
Benefits Of Deep Teeth Cleaning
In addition to restoring your healthy smile, a deep cleaning at PerioImplant Associates will also improve and impact your overall health. Benefits of deep teeth cleanings include the following:
- Prevents Gum Disease: Gum disease is the inflammation of the gums caused by a build-up of plaque, tartar, and calculus on your teeth. The most common symptoms for gum disease are swelling and bleeding when brushing your teeth. To prevent gum disease, it is essential to keep damaging plaque and tartar off your teeth.
- Prevent Cavities: Plaque that collects on your teeth will destroy the enamel. Plaque is the leading cause of decay, and cavities left untreated can result in a tooth extraction. Scheduling a deep cleaning to remove plaque is one of the best ways you can maintain good oral health.
- Prevents Halitosis: If you have gum disease or another oral health issue you may have bad breath. One of the benefits of a deep cleaning is the elimination of persistent bad breath.
- Reduce The Likelihood of a Heart Attack or Stroke: In addition to causing oral problems, the bacteria from gum disease can also enter your bloodstream and increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Research has proven that the presence of gum disease doubles the likelihood to suffer from a heart attack and a stroke.
- Reduces risk of Diabetes: A direct correlation exists between gum disease and diabetes. If you have diabetes, you are now more vulnerable to developing gum disease, and if you have gum disease you increase the likelihood of having issues regulating your blood glucose levels, which can result in developing diabetes. Regular deep cleanings will reduce your risk of developing these issues.
Contact Our Practice Today
Our goal is to get you back to smiling and chewing with confidence. With our qualified staff and compassionate team, we will listen to your questions and desires to find the best solution for your dental health.
The Process for Deep Teeth Cleaning, Scaling and Root Planing
Deep teeth cleaning, scaling and root planing can be done at PerioImplant Associates as outpatient treatment. You might need more than one appointment for the procedure depending on the severity of your condition. Our team will also decide if you need a local anesthetic to minimize the discomfort of your procedure. If you have anxiety or concerned about discomfort, we can discuss this at your evaluation.
We first perform the deep teeth scaling. This includes using a scaler and scraping the plaque from your teeth below the surface of your gums and in any large pockets that have developed.
Next, if necessary, we will do the root planing. We smooth the tooth roots using a specific scaling tool. This smoothing removes the last source of the infection and helps your gums reattach to your teeth.
PerioImplant Associates might recommend additional treatment depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. We can use antimicrobial agents in your mouth or add oral antibiotics for you to take for several days to quicken the healing process.
Proper Care Improves the Longevity of The Scaling and Root Planing
To enjoy the benefits of your deep teeth cleaning treatment, be sure to exercise good oral hygiene habits every day. Brush twice a day and practice proper brushing technique. You also need to floss daily. If you do not care to floss, you may want to consider a flossing alternative. Be mindful of your diet. One of the easiest ways to prevent dental issues from developing is to avoid foods that are sugary or high in starch.
Schedule consistent dental exams at PerioImplant Associates every three to six months. By providing a deep clean for your teeth and diagnosing potential issues before they progress, these preventative checkups are critical to maintaining your oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing Treatment Costs
The cost of your deep cleaning will depend on your individual situation and your treatment plan. We will review with you the cost of the treatment, insurance plan coverage, and available payment options before we begin, so that you can make the best choice for your situation.
Our Specialists Tell Our Story Best
Ramsey Burton, DMD
Dr. Ramsey Burton is originally from Nashville, TN. He received both his undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Louisville. Following dental school, he completed periodontal specialty training at the University of Kentucky.
Courtney Shearer, DMD, MS
Dr. Courtney Shearer was born and raised in Louisville, KY. She attended Washington and Lee University for her undergraduate degree. She then attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry where she received her Doctorate in Dentistry.
Jodie Lusby, DMD, MSD
Dr. Jodie Lusby is a Board Certified Periodontist and grew up in Florence, KY. He attended the University of Kentucky where he received his biology degree and graduated Magna Cum Laude. He then attended the Louisville School of Dentistry.
A Warm and Caring Welcome to Our Practice
Our entire team at PerioImplant Associates has one primary focus, and that is to do what is best for you. It can be natural for you to be either apprehensive or anxious about visiting a general dentist, or even a dental specialist such as a periodontist. Understanding that emotion, we will always take our time in explaining the benefits of the procedure that is being proposed for your dental health. Both offices, Louisville, KY, and New Albany, IN, are continuously trained to address all issues and concerns. We will share the aspects of periodontal treatment, introduce you to our staff, and explain any general office policies. Call us today about an evaluation for a deep teeth cleaning, scaling and root planing procedure for you. Each of us will greet you with a smile and will join together to send you home with a healthy smile of your own that you will be eager to share.