Deep cleaning, also known as root planing, refers to the initial treatment of gum disease (periodontal disease).  Some signs of gum disease include but are not limited to:

Bad breath, loose and shifting teeth, red, swollen and or bleeding gums, itching or soreness of gums, depth pocket readings greater than 4mm, gum recession and loss of bone in the jaw.

What happens if you do not treat active periodontal disease?

You can have acute or chronic infections, loss of your teeth, and transmission of oral bacteria through your blood stream into your heart, lungs and other body systems.

What happens during a “deep cleaning”?

Your dentist or hygienist will scale the rough areas of the roots and remove the calcified bacterial deposits (ie. calculus, tartar) under the tissue which would otherwise keep the gum tissue inflamed and infected.  This is usually done with the help of local anesthetic.   Irrigation with an antibacterial solution is frequently used.  In some cases, placement of antibiotic powder in the deepest pockets may be recommended.  In my office, we also use laser technology to stimulate healing, kill bacteria, and eliminate damaged unhealthy tissue so that new healthy tissue can form and attach to the tooth, thereby reducing pocket depth.

Any post-operative concerns?

After a deep cleaning, you may be numb for several hours if anesthetic was used.  Try to avoid eating or chewing until the numbness has worn off.  For the rest of the day, try to avoid chewing crunchy or spicy foods on the side of the mouth that has been treated.  You may resume normal chewing the next day.

Factors that may affect success of treatment?

Your overall health, medications, nutrition, genetics and tobacco use are all factors that can affect the success of treatment.  It is possible that even with this treatment, you may need to be referred to a periodontist, or gum specialist, for evaluation and treatment if your dentist or hygienist determine it is necessary.

Typically, after completion of deep cleaning you will be required to return every 3 to 4 months for continuing care.  As always, good home care and regular dental visits are essential to maintaining your periodontal as well as overall oral health.

Your friendly dentist,
Dr. Sarah Po
www.elitesacramentodentist.com
January 28, 2010