Deep cleaning (root planing)
This first step is to reduce the gingival inflammation and thus allow
the supporting bone to partially recover. For an optimal result, the oral
hygiene must be excellent. This step includes the following :
- Personalized oral hygiene instructions using techniques and tools
adapted to your needs.
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove the plaque and
tartar buildup which adheres to the root surface below the gum line.
This procedure is not a surgery, but rather a very thorough cleaning
(compared to the habitual more superficial cleanings). It is done mainly
under local anesthesia (freezing) and usually requires 2 to 4 appointments.
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Special instruments are used below the gum line to remove soft
and hard deposits from the tooth surface.
To see how these defects form, go to the periodontal disease page.
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The irritants have been removed from the root surface.
Deep cleaning does not eliminate deep pockets and may have to
be redone periodically.
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Once the freezing has worn off, there is usually no pain. However some
patients may experience the following side effects :
- Tooth sensitivity (especially to cold, although temporary, it may
last up to 2 months)
- Contraction of the healing gums (as the inflammation decreases). This
may create some spaces between certain teeth.
However, the benefits of the treatment significantly outweigh the potential
side effects, especially considering that without the treatment, the teeth
would be eventually lost.
