Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing

Martinez Dental Solutions provides comprehensive periodontal treatments, including periodontal scaling and root planing. This dental scaling procedure removes etiologic agents which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus). Request an appointment today by calling one of our Jacksonville offices.

Comprehensive Root Planing & Dental Scaling

Root planing and dental scaling are non-surgical procedures that completely cleanse the periodontium. This works very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate/severe periodontal disease. Scaling and root planing can be used both as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone treatment.

Why Perform This Procedure?

Disease prevention: The oral bacteria which cause periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Research has shown that lung infections and heart disease have been linked to periodontal bacteria. Periodontal scaling and root planing remove bacteria and halt this severe form of gum disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body.

Tooth protection: When gum pockets exceed 3 mm in depth, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease. As pockets deepen, they tend to house more colonies of dangerous bacteria. Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by the body begins to destroy gingival and bone tissue, which may lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world.

Aesthetic effects: Dental scaling and root planing help remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline. As an added bonus, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the scaling and planing procedure.

Better breath: One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis (bad breath). Food particles and bacteria can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which is alleviated with periodontal treatments such as scaling and root planing.

Our Professional Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing treatments are only performed after a thorough examination of the mouth. The dentist will take X-rays, conduct visual examinations, and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning these procedures. Depending on the current condition of the gums, the amount of calculus (tartar) present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of the periodontitis, a local anesthetic may be used.

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What Is Scaling?

This procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool helps to remove the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, including calculus and plaque, from the surface of the crown and root surfaces. In many cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.

What Is Root Planing?

This procedure is a specific treatment that serves to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed in order to promote good healing. Having clean, smooth root surfaces helps keep bacteria from easily colonizing in the future. Following these deep cleaning procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics. This will soothe irritation and help the gum tissues heal quickly.

During the next appointment, the dentist or hygienist will thoroughly examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3 mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended. Once the periodontal gum disease is under control, we will perform periodontal maintenance evaluations and further treatments, as necessary, on a regularly scheduled basis.

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Advantages of Martinez Dental Solutions

  • No rotating doctors! Our dentists own and manage our dental offices, and you will always see the same dentist each time you visit
  • We have a multilingual staff to ensure every patient receives quality care geared toward restoring and enhancing their smile
  • We follow strict sterilization techniques and cross-contamination prevention regulations as set by the American Dental Association (ADA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Center for Disease Control (CDC)

Choose Us for Effective Periodontal Treatment

Request an appointment today for our comprehensive and effective periodontal treatment. We also provide dental exams, cleaning and preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, and dental restoration services. Located in Jacksonville, we serve residents in Atlantic Beach, St. Augustine, Jacksonville Beach, Middleburg, and Riverside.

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