Deep Cleaning and Root Planing

Deep cleaning, also known as root planing, is a technique we use to treat periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease is a condition in which plaque and bacteria work their way deep into the gums that surround the teeth. Unfortunately, once periodontal disease begins, it can be treated but never completely eliminated. If not treated, it ultimately will cause the bone surrounding the tooth to erode away.

Typically we perform initial treatment of root planing to get your gums closer to health and then maintain that level of health with follow up periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months. Occasionally we also use a localized antibiotic called Arestin to temporarily lower the bacteria levels in your gums to allow them to heal, and then give the good bacteria a chance to thrive.

Gum Treatment