Deep Teeth Cleaning in Abilene, Texas
What Is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
A deep teeth cleaning in Abilene, Texas, also called scaling and root planing, is a non surgical treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line to treat and prevent gum disease. The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non surgical procedures is to remove agents such as dental plaque and tartar, also called calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand alone treatment or as a preventive measure. They are commonly performed for gingivitis and for moderate to severe periodontal disease.
WHAT DO THE PROCEDURES ENTAIL?
Dr. Christie Leedy will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include dental imaging and a close visual examination of your mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Christie Leedy may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.
Scaling:
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing:
Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Benefits of a Deep Teeth Cleaning
If treatment is successful, scaling and planing may have many periodontal benefits. One is that it can help prevent disease. Research has proven that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the blood stream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria that cause these conditions.
Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3 millimeters in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, eventually causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue. This leads 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.
Antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobials (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. Christie Leedy may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Christie Leedy to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.
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HAPPY PATIENTS. BIG SMILES.
"Dr. Christie Leedy was great, and did a very good job, as I did not have any pain at all. I give them 100 stars out of 10. Thank you all, I’ll be back again to finish the rest."
- Tim David
Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Teeth Cleaning in Abilene, Texas
Scaling and root planing for gum disease in Abilene, Texas
What is a deep teeth cleaning, and how is it different from a regular cleaning?
A deep teeth cleaning in Abilene, Texas, also called scaling and root planing, is a non surgical treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line to treat and prevent gum disease. A regular teeth cleaning keeps healthy gums clean above the gum line, while a deep cleaning reaches beneath it to clear the bacteria and hardened tartar that cause gum inflammation, then smooths the tooth roots so the gums can heal. Your dentist recommends a deep cleaning only when signs of gum disease are present.
How do I know if I need a deep teeth cleaning?
You may need a deep teeth cleaning if you have bleeding, red, or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or gum pockets deeper than three millimeters. These are early signs of gum disease, which often causes no pain in its early stages. During a comprehensive dental exam in Abilene, Texas, Dr. Christie Leedy measures your gum pockets and reviews dental imaging to determine whether scaling and root planing is right for you.
Does a deep teeth cleaning hurt?
No. A deep teeth cleaning is designed to be comfortable, and a local anesthetic is used when needed to numb the area so you do not feel discomfort during scaling and root planing. Some mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal and easily managed. Most patients actually find the treatment relieving, because it addresses the gum inflammation and bad breath caused by built up bacteria.
How long does a deep teeth cleaning take, and how many visits will I need?
A deep teeth cleaning is often completed in one or two visits, depending on how much tartar is present and how many areas of the mouth need treatment. The mouth is usually divided into sections, and your dentist in Abilene, Texas may treat one half or one quadrant at a time so each area gets thorough, gentle care. Your team explains your personalized plan and timeline before treatment begins.
What happens after a deep teeth cleaning?
After a deep teeth cleaning, your gums begin to heal and reattach to the smoothed tooth roots over the following weeks. Your dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings, usually every three to four months, to keep gum disease from returning, and in some cases Arestin antibiotic therapy is placed in the gum pockets to control bacteria. Brushing and flossing well at home protect your results and support long term gum health.
Does dental insurance cover a deep teeth cleaning in Abilene, Texas?
Because scaling and root planing treats an active dental condition, many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a deep teeth cleaning. Abilene Dental works with many insurance plans and offers flexible payment options to keep periodontal care affordable for families in Abilene, Texas. Our team is happy to review your coverage and answer questions before treatment begins. Book an appointment online or call 325-692-3344 to get started.
HOURS OF OPERATION
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Mon8:00am - 4:00pm
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Tue8:00am -4 :00pm
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Wed8:00am - 4:00pm
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Thur8:00am - 4:00pm
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Fri8:00am - 4:00pm
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Sat - SunClosed