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Our Services / Deep Cleaning

Deep Cleaning

Deep Cleaning services offered in Albany, NY

Removing pockets of plaque beneath the gum line is essential when you have advanced periodontal disease. At Capital Region Periodontics and Dental Implants in Albany, New York, periodontists Reed Ference, DDS, MDS, Sean Ference, DDS, MDS, and their team perform deep cleanings to restore your gum health and prevent the progression of periodontal disease. Call Capital Region Periodontics and Dental Implants or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

Deep Cleaning Q & A

What is a deep cleaning?

A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a treatment performed under a local anesthetic that removes pockets of plaque beneath the gum line. This minimally invasive procedure helps treat periodontal disease, a gum infection that destroys your tooth-supporting tissue and bone. 

Periodontal disease occurs when plaque builds up on the tooth roots underneath your gums and releases toxins into the gum tissue.

What happens during a deep cleaning?

The primary purpose of deep cleaning is to remove all traces of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your tooth surfaces and smooth the roots to promote healing. Your periodontist at Capital Region Periodontics and Dental Implants performs this procedure in two steps:

 

Scaling

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar, also called calculus, from the surfaces of your teeth. 

Your periodontist thoroughly cleans this bacteria from the roots using an ultrasonic scaling tool, which includes an irrigation system that delivers an antimicrobial agent below the gum line to treat and prevent bacteria buildup.

 

Root planing

During root planing, the team removes small amounts of cementum — a hard layer of tissue covering the root — and dentin to eliminate bacteria-causing microorganisms. The team then smooths the root to promote healing. 

If you’re at risk of periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, the team may recommend antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobial agents to prevent infection. Placing antibiotic fibers directly into the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing may also help control infection and promote healing.

What are the benefits of a deep cleaning?

A deep cleaning is one of the most effective treatments to fight periodontal disease. Not only does it treat early gum disease, like gingivitis, it can prevent the formation of new plaque pockets. 

Treating periodontal disease doesn’t just treat the infection itself. A deep cleaning can also help prevent:

  • Tooth loss
  • Shifting teeth
  • Loosening teeth
  • Cardiovascular diseases that periodontal disease can influence

Since deep cleanings effectively remove plaque from your teeth, they can also eliminate surface stains. Your teeth may appear brighter and whiter after your visit.

To learn more about deep cleanings, call Capital Region Periodontics and Dental Implants, or schedule an appointment online today.