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A healthier smile with scaling and root planing treatment
Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a common dental procedure for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. It involves the manual removal of plaque and tartar buildup from tooth surfaces and smoothing rough spots on the roots to prevent gum disease and enhance overall oral health. We also provide laser treatment that improves results by targeting microscopic bacteria while promoting gum health through stimulation and increased blood flow to the area. Delaying procedures like SRP can affect systemic conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Shiva Talebi is a dentist in the Sandy Springs, Georgia, area who offers this service to patients experiencing various stages of periodontal disease or “periodontitis.”
Why do I need a deep cleaning?
Gum disease can be caused by various factors such as genetics, smoking, or lack of proper oral hygiene. Also, those of Asian, Black, and Latin ethnicities are more prone to periodontitis and, ultimately, irreversible bone loss. If you fall into these categories, scaling and root planing may be needed to restore your oral health.
What is a deep cleaning
Lack of appropriate oral hygiene, specifically correct flossing techniques, can result in plaque buildup under the gum. Dental plaque first forms as a soft, removable film. If brushing and flossing fail to remove this soft biofilm, it will harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by home oral hygiene. The tartar under the gums can lead to gradual bone loss and create deeper pockets that are more difficult to keep clean. This situation requires a deep cleaning.
A deep cleaning involves using special equipment to break down the hard tartar above the visible gum and under the gum that is not visible. This process involves safely removing the tartar particles to avoid systemic complications. Once the tooth and root surfaces are smooth, following up with maintenance procedures is essential to avoid relapse.
Can my bone loss be reversed?
Consistent home care and regular dental maintenance are crucial for maintaining a smooth root structure. A clean, healthy tooth can encourage the bone and gum to rebuild and reverse periodontitis.
How many times do I need a deep cleaning?
If you follow your dentist’s recommended frequency of periodontal maintenance and have appropriate home care, you should not need a deep cleaning more than once. However, it is very common for patients to miss their follow-up appointments and relapse, which results in repeating a deep cleaning.
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What steps are required to complete the scaling and root planing procedure?
If you have been recommended a scaling and root planing treatment, Dr. Talebi will perform this in three stages. After the initial consultation, one-half of your mouth will be treated first. Then, during your next appointment, the other half will be treated.
Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Pre-treatment consultation appointment. Before undergoing scaling and root planing treatment, Dr. Talebi thoroughly examines your mouth to decide if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. She also takes dental x-rays and intraoral photos to understand patients’ current bone levels better visually and discuss their oral health and the necessary treatments.
- Anesthesia. Scaling and root planing might result in minor discomfort, so local anesthesia is used to numb the treated area, ensuring a more comfortable experience for the patient.
- The scaling process begins. Using specialized tools, Dr. Talebi will meticulously remove plaque and tartar buildup from the various surfaces of the teeth. Depending on the severity of the buildup, this may take multiple visits.
- The root planing process begins. Once all of the plaque and tartar have been removed, Dr. Talebi will use different tools to smooth out any rough spots on the roots of your teeth. This prevents bacteria from growing in these areas and promotes overall gum health.
- Follow-up appointments. After scaling and root planing treatment, you will likely be scheduled for a few more follow-up appointments to ensure your mouth is healing properly. Dr. Talebi may also recommend at-home oral care to help maintain a healthy smile.
- Maintenance and prevention. After the scaling and root planing procedure, you must maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent plaque and tartar buildup from returning. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing teeth daily, and visiting our dental team at Tooth Architect Dental Care regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
Who can I call to learn more about scaling and root planing for gum infection and recession treatment?
Dr. Talebi and her dedicated Tooth Architect Dental Care team work closely with patients to achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last. If you have been impacted by periodontal disease, including the earliest stages of gingivitis, we welcome you to speak to our team about available treatment options. Call (404) 666-8066 to discuss scaling and root planing for your smile!
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Dr. Shiva Talebi
Dr. Shiva Talebi combines her architectural background with a passion for dentistry, offering a unique approach to patient care. She graduated with the highest honors as a Gamma Beta Phi Honors Society member with recognition in Who’s Who Among American Students from Georgia Tech and earned her DMD from the Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Talebi emphasizes holistic dentistry, prioritizing patient comfort and overall well-being. An active member of the ADA and HDA and recipient of the Hinman Scholarship, she remains committed to rigorous continuing education. She is passionate about community service and volunteers at the Ben Massell Dental Clinic.