Dr. Nicole G. Nalbandian (DDS, MS)
Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) is a procedure commonly referred to as a ‘deep cleaning.’ This procedure is recommended to treat periodontitis and heavy tartar accumulation below the gumline. When tartar (or calculus) builds up it creates an inflammatory response and leads to 1. inflamed bleeding gums and 2. bone loss. When this begins to happen patients may begin to notice that their teeth are feeling ‘loose’ or their gums bleed when they brush or look swollen when they smile. This process of inflammation and bone loss creates what we call deep ‘pockets’ which become a trap for plaque and debris to further lead to more and more inflammation and bone loss.
Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) is a non-surgical procedure that allows for removal of this buildup to restore a healthy smile and prevent further deterioration of bone. To access buildup below the gumline and clean and smooth the tooth surfaces, this procedure is done under local anesthetic and is completed in two visits for the patient’s comfort.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Importance of Deep Dental Cleaning
Initially, patients diagnosed with periodontal disease often don’t have any symptoms other than the occasional bleeding while flossing. Because this disease feels so benign, it often goes untreated until it has advanced to a point of irreparable and serious damage. When left unchecked, periodontal disease can lead to severe mobility and ultimately loss of teeth. It can also cause things like bad breath, bleeding gums, and infections.
Signs You May Need a Deep Dental Cleaning
- Persistent bad breath
- Separated, shifting, or loose teeth
- Red, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Gums are pulling away from teeth
What to Expect After a Deep Cleaning
Once you complete your deep cleaning, your gums and bone will need time to heal before they can be re-evaluated to determine if further treatment is necessary. Generally, patients can expect a few days of gum soreness and some generalized mild tooth sensitivity after the procedure is completed. In some cases when the amount of bone loss is too advanced and certain areas have stubborn pockets/inflammation, it may be recommended to see a periodontal specialist to determine if there are other measures that need to be taken in those areas to prevent disease advancement. After successfully completing SRP’s and your gums/bone return to health, your goal is to maintain a healthy smile by coming in for what’s called a ‘Periodontal Maintenance’ every 3-4months. A periodontal maintenance is more comparable to a ‘regular’ cleaning in that it does not require anesthetic and can be completed in one visit. Maintenance Is a critical component of a successful SRP treatment because without it, oral health cannot be achieved.
After successfully completing SRP’s and your gums/bone return to health, your goal is to maintain a healthy smile by coming in for what’s called a ‘Periodontal Maintenance’ every 3-4months. A periodontal maintenance is more comparable to a ‘regular’ cleaning in that it does not require anesthetic and can be completed in one visit. Maintenance Is a critical component of a successful SRP treatment because without it, oral health cannot be achieved.
Dr. Nalbandian and her team take great pride in achieving healthy gums and periodontal health for their patients. If you notice that you have been experiencing loose teeth or bleeding gums, contact Dr. Nalbandian’s office for an evaluation today.
Appointments
Please reach us at [email protected] if you have any questions.
New Patient Exam
1 Hr
Emergency Visit
1 Hr
Consultation
30 Mins
Contact Us
WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU
DR. NICOLE G. NALBANDIAN
Call Us: +1 (818) 262 3043
916 w. Burbank Boulevard, Suite A (BB Dental Care), Burbank, California 91506