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Normal
tooth cleanings remove plaque and calculus deposits from
above the gum line. When these deposits extend below the gum
line, root planing is necessary. Root planing is
performed with the same tools as normal cleanings, but the
procedure is more aggressive. Often it is necessary to numb
the affected area before the procedure. Once the accumulated
plaque and calculus have been removed, the gums will heal,
tightening around the teeth.
Depending upon the extent of disease found in the
examination, root planing may be done over several office
visits. In this way, your dentist can assess the progress of
treatment, and alter tactics if necessary. Simply stated,
root planing may be considered as an extension of a "routine
cleaning". A "routine cleaning" is intended to clean harden
deposits that form above the gums. Over time, these deposits
often form below the gums, on the roots. It is at this point
that we recommend a more therapeutic procedure, called root
planing. |
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