Procedures

Scaling & root planing

Advantages & benefits

Prevents or delays the need for surgical periodontal treatment.

Eliminates bacteria from the pockets around teeth, allowing the tissues to heal.

Eliminates the acids and enzymes produced by bacteria and the body's immune system that cause tissue destruction.

Produces a root surface which is less conducive to bacterial colony formation.

Eliminates bleeding and swelling of the tissues that are part of the body's immune response.

Allows the patient better access to brush, floss and otherwise clean the teeth, according to individual instructions from the dentist and dental hygienist.

Delays or prevents progression of periodontal disease.

Is a step toward improved general health. SRP has been shown in some studies to improve blood flow in blood vessels of the extremities (specifically, the arms). It is reasonable to infer from the study that controlling inflammation may improve blood circulation in general.

Even if the calculus deposits are not completely removed, and the root surface is not completely smooth, the level of inflammation is generally reduced following SRP. Thus, some benefits accrue to the patient in most instances, whether or not ideal health has been established.

Preserves the teeth and as importantly, the tooth supporting "alveolar" bone.