Scaling & Root Planing
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 etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly preformed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
What do the procedures entail?
Dr. Eisin will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Eisin 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.
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. Eisin 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. Eisin 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.
Benefits of Treatment
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 3mm 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.
Our caring and dedicated staff can't wait to hear from you!
616-656-0100 AppointmentsEisin Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Patient Review by Carol B
This office delivers high quality dental care. Your concerns/questions/worries will addressed in a timely, professional & confidential manner. The staff will feel like friends after your first visit. You will not be disappointed.
- Carol B
Patient Review by Erin T
Dr. Eisen and her staff are wonderful. My son had a consultation with her and she was extremely thorough and made my son feel very comfortable. She is very attentive to detail and explained the entire process so there were no questions when we left. The staff are very friendly and welcoming. I would highly recommend this office!
- Erin T
Patient Review by Pamela I
This dental chicken does not lose sleep any more. Look forward to my visits. Dental Hygene is really great.
- Pamela I
Patient Review by Sarah Y
I was quite nervous about my appointment for an extraction and graft. I read the reviews and bios and researched heavily before making a choice for a Periodontist in the area. Dr. E is also a veteran and that was part of my deciding factor along with her other credentials. The front office team was fabulous organizing insurance, payment and working me in. Dr. and assistant were kind and took time to explain each step of my procedure. I was kept very comfortable throughout. I'm not needle phobic--just pain/surprise phobic--I have anxiety and a vivid imagination! So they kept me nice and numb and talked through each change of tool, its sound, etc. I was never in pain during the procedure and post procedure, with only OTC pain medication, I am in zero pain due in large part I believe to the methods Dr. E utilizes compared to experiences other friends have had with similar with other Drs. This was by far the most serious dental procedure I've ever had--but it was the best dental experience I've had. I even got a follow up call when the office was closed by the Dr. 10/10 recommend Dr. E and team for your perio needs. Thank you team!
- Sarah Y
Patient Review by Robert B
This staff is at the top of the ratings. Friendly, professional and almost painless.
- Robert B
Patient Review by Torney H
If you are a person who is ashamed of your smile or oral health, if you hate going in for dental work, or fear being judged, Dr. Eisin is the person to see. You too will be amazed at her skills, her amazing heart, her incredible team! This is where embarrassing smiles are made beautiful and bright. Truly transforming.
- Torney H
Patient Review by Pam W
From the first appointment for exam and overview, to the first perio hygiene cleaning, I was put at easy and procedures were easy and painless. The office works so well together. Very pleased
- Pam W
Patient Review by Doha O
outstanding care & performance ...! I'm so blessed to be your patient !
- Doha O
Patient Review by Kennedy K
This was my first visit and am grateful Dr. Eisin the team are professional and wonderful people. God bless you.
- Kennedy K
Patient Review by Megan D
The entire staff at Eisin Periodontics could not have been more kind and welcoming or eased my worries any better. From my conversation to schedule an appointment to the comprehensive exam, I was made to feel completely at ease. I have never had a practitioner take as much time to answer my questions and explain every step of the exam as Dr. Eisin did. I'd highly recommend this practice to anyone, especially if you suffer from dental anxiety. Each staff member and Dr. Eisin were compassionate and non-judgmental. I wish more practices were like this.
- Megan D
Patient Review by Seely R
Compassionate, professional, kind. Highly recommend dr eisin and her team. I had surgery there today.
- Seely R
Patient Review by Doha O
The best of the best!!!!!!!!!
- Doha O
Patient Review by Kortrez K
As an nurse I know what is required for patient bedside manner and profession matters. This practice is the textbook definition of both. I can highly recommend this practice and the Dr. 10 star review from this happy fellow.
- Kortrez K
Patient Review by Pbhs T
I love this practice!
- Pbhs T