What is the difference….

By squandt on January 5, 2010

…between a “regular” hygiene visit, root planing, and periodontal maintenance? For a person that is used to seeing the dentist every 6 months, hearing they need root planing, may throw them for a loop.
A “regular” or standard hygiene visit is recommended for persons who do not exhibit any bone loss, infection, or periodontal disease. Plaque, tartar, and stain is removed from the tooth surfaces mostly above the gum line.  Periodontal disease is a very common infection of the supporting structures of the teeth (bone, gums, roots) that, if left untreated, eventually leads to tooth loss.  You may notice bleeding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, bad taste, or red and puffy gums.  Or you may not notice any symptoms. 

Root planing is the non-surgical first step in treating periodontal disease.  This procedure removes tartar, bacteria, and their toxins from the root surfaces below the gum line where the gum and root meet.  A re-evaluation is performed 4 weeks later.  If the disease process is under control, a regular hygiene visit is no longer appropriate.  Rather,  special periodontal maintenance will be required to help keep your mouth healthy.  Advanced disease may be more difficult to control.  If this is the case, referral to a gum specialist called a periodontist is required.  Further treatment, including surgery, may be needed.  It can be confusing, so ask plenty of questions.  Remember, we are here to help you feel comfortable with the decisions you make regarding your dental health.

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