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The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is a thorough cleaning which includes scaling and/or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and calculus (tartar), which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as stand-alone therapy or preparatory treatment for periodontal surgery.
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Brooks may place a specialized antibiotic directly into a periodontal pocket that is still exhibiting deep pocket depth after completion of scaling and planing. This is done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
Research has shown bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the blood stream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes influencing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing minimizes these bacterial colonizations.
Another benefit of treatment is tooth preservation. When pockets exceed 3 mm. in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body, destroying gingival and bone tissue, and eventually leading to tooth loss.
Finally, scaling and root planing may make the mouth more aesthetically pleasing, and should reduce bad breath caused from food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Superficial stains on the teeth will be removed during scaling and planing, adding an extra bonus to the procedures.
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