Scaling and root planing, also called “deep cleaning”, is a non-surgical periodontal therapy aimed at removing bacterial plaque and calculus from tooth surfaces. This procedure targets areas below the gum line and is often done with local anesthetic to allow for better patient comfort and effectiveness of treatment. The goal of this process is to reduce levels of inflammation, bleeding, and reduce periodontal pockets. The success of this care is dependent on the patient’s ability to continue effective homecare and follow up maintenance appointments. With more advanced cases of periodontitis, scaling and root planing is often the first step prior to surgical periodontal care.
Periodontal Maintenance
Once Dr. Hobbs has initiated treatment of your periodontal disease, periodontal maintenance, or Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT), will enable you to stabilize the disease and increase your chances of keeping your teeth as they are. SPT will protect the foundation for good oral health which includes the gums, bone and roots of teeth. Your recall frequency will be assessed by Dr Hobbs and your dentist to suit your individual periodontal needs.
What is included in a SPT visit?
- Discussion of changes to health history
- Oral examination looking for any abnormal changes
- Measuring depths of pockets
- Cleaning teeth to remove bacterial plaque and tartar
- Taking any necessary x-rays to evaluate bone levels around teeth
- Examining teeth for decay
- Applying or prescribing medications to reduce tooth sensitivity
- During your visit, Dr. Hobbs will review your periodontal status and make recommendations accordingly.