Dental Deep Cleaning and Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)
Regular dental cleanings are essential to our oral hygiene, but sometimes more intensive care is needed to protect our teeth from further damage. Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), also known as Dental Deep Cleaning, goes beyond the usual cleaning procedures in order to keep us safe from serious dental issues.
Dr. Loveleen Brar and the team at Marigold Dental are experts in providing Dental Deep Cleaning (SRP) treatment to their patients.
Understanding Dental Deep Cleaning and SRP
Dental Deep Cleaning, or Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), is a procedure to combat periodontal disease. Bacterial biofilms, also known as dental plaque, build up on the tooth surface and beneath the gums, causing periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition.
In essence, Scaling and Root Planing is a deep-cleaning procedure. It involves removing dental plaque and calculus (also known as tartar), which are hardened deposits that adhere to our teeth and can lead to gum disease if left untreated.
This process extends below the gum line, reaching the root of the tooth.
The Significance of Dental Deep Cleaning
Scaling and Root Planing is crucial for several reasons. It not only helps remove hard-to-reach plaque and tartar deposits but also aims to smooth the root surface. By doing so, it discourages further plaque and tartar buildup and promotes the healing of gum tissues, allowing for the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
Moreover, the SRP process aids in reducing inflammation and halting the progression of periodontal disease. If periodontal disease continues unchecked, it can lead to serious dental problems, including bone and tooth loss, as well as dozens of medical conditions.
Identifying the Need for Dental Deep Cleaning
Dentists recommend SRP based on specific symptoms and signs of periodontal disease. These symptoms may include:
- Increasing spaces or ‘pockets’ between your teeth and gums.
- The presence of calculus underneath the gums.
- Indications of bone loss in dental X-rays.
What to Expect with SRP
The process takes about 1–1.5 hours per side of the mouth. We generally do one side of the mouth at a time. We ensure you are comfortable and gently use an ultrasonic device to remove hard deposits from under the gums, then follow up with careful, fine hand scaling.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
Following an SRP procedure, patients often see a significant improvement in the condition of their gums. With proper aftercare, which includes rigorous oral hygiene and possible changes to diet and lifestyle, patients can expect shrinking pockets and healthier gums over time.
Preventive Measures: Keeping Your Gums Healthy
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to preventing gum diseases that may necessitate deep cleaning. This includes:
- Regular and thorough brushing of teeth, preferably twice a day.
- Regular use of dental floss to remove plaque from areas a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Regular use of mouthwash to eliminate any remaining harmful bacteria.
Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings are also instrumental in maintaining gum health, as they can help detect early signs of gum disease, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist, we can help! Schedule an appointment with Marigold Dental in Federal Way, WA, today to understand the benefits of deep dental cleanings or SRP. Our friendly team is ready to provide you with exceptional care and guide you on your journey to a healthy, confident smile.
