Common Questions
*What is Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) ?
If plaque and tartar is left on the teeth, it provides the right conditions for bacteria to thrive. The bacteria irritate the gums, which means that they bleed more easily. You may notice this if you are brushing your teeth, or eating and sometimes your gums may bleed a bit. This is the early stage of gum disease called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis, your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth by scaling and polishing them. They may also recommend an antiseptic mouthwash containing chlorhexidine and show you how to brush and floss your teeth effectively. Most adults have some degree of gum disease.
If gingivitis is not treated and nothing is done about it, the inflammation will work its way down towards the foundations of the tooth causing a “periodontal pocket”. Again, within the confines of the pocket, the conditions are such that the bacteria can have the perfect environment and cause more damage.
Gum disease can break down the support (bone) structures of the teeth, so that eventually, they will become loose. The problem is that until it gets quite severe, the person often has no symptoms. Sadly, the damage to the support structures of the teeth is irreversible. The good news is that if gum disease is caught in time, its progression can be halted and improved upon, and that is the key.
To stop gum disease from progressing, your dentist may advise periodontal therapy or deep cleaning. This gets rid of the bacteria in the pocket and provides the necessary conditions for healing to occur.
Difference between Ordinary Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
There is some confusion about the difference between scaling and root planing. Scaling is basically the process of removing dental tartar from surfaces of the teeth and root planing is the process of smoothening the root surfaces and removing any infected tooth structure. If you have gum disease or gum pocketing, the gum pockets around the teeth will have deepened, thereby allowing tartar deposit to form under the gumline. The two processes tend to blur together since during the cleaning process, the dental worker scales away tartar and performs any necessary root planing at the same time. Any roughness can be planed away to result in a silky smooth surface.
Does it Hurt?
Depending on the depth of the pocket and severity of the root surface irregularity, the dentist may wish to make the area numb so that the process is comfortable for you. Dont hesitate to discuss with your dentist or hygienist how to best manage any discomfort.
Sometimes if the pockets are not too deep, there may be little or no discomfort during the procedure-even without numbing. The only sensation may be the physical scraping feeling along the teeth as the area is cleaned and smoothened. A root planed root surface fre of tartar has a better chance of allowing the gum tissues to heal and reattach to it. As a result, some deep gum pockets can be reduced after the deep cleaning.
What to expect and do after professional dental cleaning or scale and root planing
- Gum will feel sore or painful if not taking pain medicines in the first 3 days or may last for 2 weeks.
- Gum will shrink and root surfaces show or gum recession occurs due to removal of tartar that has collected in the deep pockets
3. Teeth may become more sensitive.
4.Very large fillings or broken tooth may be more painful and need canal therapy.
Medicines to take
Take Ibuprofen or Motrin the first 3 days for soreness and pain. (800mg- 3x/day )
Peridex (chlorhexidine)-rinse 2x/day as instructed for 7days
Antibiotics (metronidazole and amoxicillin)-take as instructed
Any pain that persists for more than 24 hours, please call our office right away @650 838-0260
* How often should I visit the dentist?
* What is your recommended daily routine for my teeth?
* Do you accept insurance?
How often should I visit the dentist?
The answer to this question depends on each individual patient’s oral health. For patients with healthy gums, little or no history of decay, good homecare and no significant medical conditions, we can usually help you maintain optimal health by scheduling cleanings and check-ups twice a year. Not all patients fall under this category however. After performing a comprehensive exam, we will develop a plan together. It is our job to inform and educate you. We will discuss all of your treatment options, giving you the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. You will never be pressured into making a decision. We customize each treatment plan to fit our patient’s needs and wishes.
What is your recommended daily routine for my teeth?
As a baseline, all patients should brush at least twice a day and ideally floss right after a meal and especially once prior to bed morning or night. Daily flossing seems to be a major obstacle for most people. As a starting point, even flossing just four times a week would make a huge difference in the health of your gums.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most insurances except HMO, Medical, or any family health plan from the county or federal government.
