Periodontal Cleaning including SRP

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) also known as a deep cleaning, is done when patients are showing signs of periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and calculus on the tooth and root surface which leads to inflammation of the gums and loss of the supporting structures around your teeth. SRP is done over the course of 2-3 appointments.  Half of the mouth (usually divided into left and right) is cleaned at each appointment, and you are often numbed so the hygienist or dentist can painlessly clean below the gum to remove bacteria and calculus buildup. A third appointment is scheduled to check on healing, evaluate home care, polish the teeth, and fine scale any remaining tartar, calculus, and stain. Once deep cleaning is done, you will be placed on periodontal maintenance protocol for 3-4 months.

Periodontal disease has been shown to affect general overall health.  Untreated periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and premature birth among other health concerns. Eliminating the bacteria associated with periodontal disease and the related infection can dramatically increase your quality of life and help you to control your general health.