Scaling and Root Planing

a.k.a SRP, Deep Cleaning

After review of your radiographs and other exam data (periodontal charting) it may be determined that you are in need of what is called scaling and root planing. Some people also refer to this as a "Deep Cleaning."

During a traditional cleaning, your teeth are cleaned above the gumline and slightly below (1-3mm) the gumline. If during your exam, the dentist determined you have gingival pockets in excess of 4mm, then a Scaling and Root Planing will be the recommended treatment because the pocket depths are beyond the reach of instruments during a traditional cleaning and bacteria must be removed to allow your gums to heal.

The SRP appointment will vary from patient to patient according to the severity of their periodontal disease. Some patients may olny need to have SRP done on a few teeth in their mouth, while others may need it on all of their teeth. Due to this, SRP may take anywhere from one to four appointment depending on the patient and their needs.

To ensure your comfort during the scaling and root planing appointment, most offices will offer anesthetic; either topical or local.

Once the SRP is complete there are a few adjunctive procedures that may be provided to enhace healing:

Full Mouth Irrigation: 0.12% Chlorhexidine, or in some offices Iodine, is forced with an irrigating syring under your gums to rinse out the pockets and kill any remaining bacteria.

Subgingival Antibiotics: Antibiotics which are placed directly into the periodontal pocket with intention to slowly release and kill periodontal pathogens.

What to Expect After SRP

While everyone's experience is different, there are a few things that you can expect and a few instructions you should follow:

After a SRP patients may experience a sore feeling in their gums, this can be resolved by taking an over the counter pain reliever such as Advil or Tylenol.
Gums may feel tender or inflamed to some patients. To remedy this, try rinsing with warm salt water. Mix 1 tsp. of salt into 1 cup of warm water, rinse and spit.
It is best to avoid smoking after SRP, smoking will delay the healing process that we are trying to encourage.
You can eat as tolerated. If you recieved local anesthetic for your appointment, wait to eat until it has worn off. Once it has worn off, many patients prefer to eat a softer diet for the first few days.
Some patients report increased sensitivity to cold after a deep cleaning. This is due to the removal of smear layer protecting the dentinal tubules from stimulus. If you begin to experience cold sensitivity after scaling and root planing, it is recommended that you begin using a sensitivity relief toothpaste such as Sensodyne.
If a subgingival antibiotic such as Arestin or Atridox was placed during your appointment, you need to avoid flossing those areas for up to 10 days. Make sure the dental hygienist reviews the areas where medication was placed and the specific instructions for that medication so you recieve the full benefits.
After a scaling and root planing you will be seen regularly for periodontal mainteance appoinments. These will occur every 3 to 4 months depending on the individual patient's needs as determined by the dentist and dental hygienist.
In order to maintain your periodontal disease and prevent the need for further, more extensive and invasive treatment, it is critical for patients to exhibit the best home care possible after scaling and root planing.