Periodontal Debridement & Root Planing

Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. When plaque and tartar build up beneath the gum line, it can lead to gum disease and, if left untreated, may progress to more serious oral health problems. Periodontal debridement and root planing are common non-surgical procedures used to manage gum disease and restore gum health.

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Understanding Gum Disease

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Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins when bacteria in dental plaque irritate the gums. Over time, the gums may become inflamed, swollen, and prone to bleeding. If the condition advances, it can cause pockets to form around the teeth where bacteria accumulate, potentially leading to bone loss and tooth instability.

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Early vs. Advanced Gum Disease

• Gingivitis: The earliest stage, where gums may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is usually reversible with proper cleaning.
• Periodontitis: A more advanced stage where the infection spreads deeper, causing gum pockets, bone loss, and possible loosening of teeth.

Periodontal debridement and root planing are particularly important at the early and moderate stages of gum disease, helping to halt progression and stabilise the condition.

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What Is Periodontal Debridement?

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Periodontal debridement is the careful removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth and from beneath the gums. Unlike routine dental cleaning, which focuses on areas above the gum line, debridement targets deposits hidden below the gums that contribute to inflammation and infection.

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How It Differs from Routine Cleaning

• Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line and polishes the teeth.
• Periodontal Debridement: Involves cleaning beneath the gums to disrupt bacterial colonies and prevent further damage to the supporting tissues.

What Is Root Planing?

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Root planing is often carried out together with debridement. It involves smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth after tartar has been removed. Bacteria are less able to reattach to smooth root surfaces, and the gums are better able to reattach to the teeth, helping to reduce pocket depth and promote healing.

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Benefits of Root Planing

• Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding.
• Encourages gum reattachment to the tooth surface.
• Helps prevent the progression of gum disease.
• Supports long-term tooth stability.

The Procedure: What to Expect

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Many patients feel more at ease when they know what the procedure involves. Periodontal debridement and root planing are usually carried out in stages, depending on the extent of the condition.

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Step 1: Assessment

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Your dentist or hygienist will assess the health of your gums by measuring pocket depths and taking X-rays if necessary. This helps determine the severity of gum disease.

Pocket Depth (Probing Depths):

• 1–3 mm → Generally considered healthy/normal if there is no bleeding on probing.
• 4 mm → Suggests early signs of gum inflammation (gingivitis) or mild periodontitis if there is attachment loss.
• 5–6 mm → Usually indicates moderate periodontitis, with deeper pockets that harbour bacteria and possible bone loss.
• ≥7 mm → Associated with advanced periodontitis, significant attachment loss, and often mobility of teeth.

Step 2: Anaesthesia

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Local anaesthesia may be applied to numb the treated area, ensuring comfort during the procedure.

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Step 3: Debridement

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Special instruments, such as ultrasonic scalers and hand tools, are used to carefully remove plaque and tartar deposits from below the gum line.

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Step 4: Root Planing

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The root surfaces are smoothed to reduce bacterial retention and allow the gums to heal more effectively.

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Step 5: Follow-Up

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After the procedure, your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and review oral hygiene practices. Additional treatments may be needed in more advanced cases.

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Aftercare and Recovery

Proper aftercare plays a vital role in the success of periodontal treatment.

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Short-Term Care

• Some mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but usually settles within a few days.
• Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash may be recommended to control bacteria.
• Pain relief medication can be taken if needed, following your dentist’s advice.

Long-Term Care

• Good oral hygiene, including twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, is essential.
• Regular dental check-ups and maintenance cleanings help keep gum disease under control.
• Avoiding tobacco and managing overall health conditions, such as diabetes, can support gum health.

Who May Need This Treatment?

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Periodontal debridement and root planing are typically recommended if:

• You have gum pockets deeper than 4 millimetres.
• Your gums bleed regularly when brushing or flossing.
• You notice persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
• X-rays show bone loss around your teeth.

Addressing gum disease early with these procedures helps preserve your natural teeth and protect your oral health.

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Preventing Gum Disease

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Prevention remains the most effective approach to gum health. Alongside professional care, you can reduce your risk of gum disease by:

• Maintaining consistent oral hygiene habits.
• Eating a balanced diet low in sugary foods and drinks.
• Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.

The Role of Maintenance Appointments

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After undergoing periodontal debridement and root planing, you may need more frequent maintenance visits compared to routine dental patients. These visits help monitor gum health, remove new deposits, and prevent recurrence.

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Book a Consultation with Alpha Dental Group

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Gum disease can be managed effectively when addressed early. Periodontal debridement and root planing are proven non-surgical methods that remove harmful deposits, encourage healing, and protect against further damage.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or persistent bad breath, timely assessment is important. Contact Alpha Dental Group to schedule a consultation and discuss whether periodontal debridement and root planing are suitable for your needs.