Scaling & Root Planing – Sugar Land, TX
[HT_SCALING_ROOT align=right]
The initial stage of treatment for periodontal disease is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling or root planing. The objective of these non-surgical procedures is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque and tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease. Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure. They are commonly preformed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease.
What do the procedures entail?
Dr. Condrey will only perform scaling and root planing after a thorough examination of the mouth, which may include taking x-rays and visually examining the mouth. Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Condrey may recommend scaling and root planing. In some cases, a local anesthesia may be used during the procedure.
- Scaling:
When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces is removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Scaling is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool. The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria. - Root Planing:
Root planing is performed in order to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins and tartar. The root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing, and also helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Condrey may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Condrey to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.
Benefits of Treatment
If treatment is successful, scaling and planing may have many periodontal benefits. One is that it can help prevent disease. Research has proven that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the blood stream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planing remove bacteria that cause these conditions.
Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the risk for periodontal disease increases. As pockets deepen, more bacteria are able to colonize, eventually causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue. This leads to tooth loss.
Finally, scaling and root planing may make the mouth more aesthetically pleasing, and should reduce bad breath caused from food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Superficial stains on the teeth will be removed during scaling and planing, adding an extra bonus to the procedures.
J. Gregory Condrey, DDS, MS, PA
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey performed an excellent, pain free procedure for me last week. He and his staff are very patient & kind. My family & I highly recommend him!
- Trudy H
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his staff are caring, pleasant and professional. I had a molar extracted in preparation for implant. I was informed by Dr. Condrey throughout the procedure and both he and his associate were concerned that my comfort was foremost. Best of all, no swelling and only two ibuprofen for very minimal discomfort!
- Michael L
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey is as professional as he is personable. He quickly resolved a chronic abscess problem that had baffled several other practitioners. Believe me that absence of abscess makes my heart grow fonder (and healthier). He also has impeccable taste in his office and staff selections. The facility is open and airy, plus it is filled with such beautiful furnishings and artwork that it resembles a mini-museum. His staff is as attentive as they are attractive. These combined elements provide a relaxing and pleasurable experience for patients receiving competent care for complex problems provided in a truly wonderfully soothing environment.
- Chuck B
Patient Review
Wow, what an amazing and simple experience!! I was so worried about getting an implant as i have had some bad dental experiences in my life and Dr. Condrey was amazing. I never had but the smallest amount of pain, barely noticeable following the procedure!! His office staff was also great and very personable! It was just a wonderful experience!!!
- Connie W
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his staff were kind, compassionate, and knowledgeable. I received professional dental care for my tooth extraction and implant. It was a good dental experience.
- Sandra T
Patient Review
I have been a patient for over 10 years with Dr Condrey. Not my first periodontist, but definitely the best one. Staff is friendly and most capable at the jobs they do. Used to always request nitrous for routine cleanings, but Andrea has such a good touch and technique that nitrous is not needed for the sensitive gums.
- Charles T
Patient Review
Very courteous and profession service
- Tim L
Patient Review
First of all I'm infamous for my dental phobias so let that be the base. Dr. Condrey and his staff were totally professional, personable, and accommodating for my entire office experience. My service/ insurance procedure was seamless and most importantly I had full access to Dr. Condrey during and after business hours. You can't take that for granted. I would recommend him and his staff to all my friends and family and coming from someone who's a stickler for customer service and loyalty I wouldn't just say it if it wasn't so.
- Marvin M
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and all the staff were very personable, informative, kind and considerate. The office atmosphere is very welcoming as is Dr. Condrey and each one of his assistants at the front desk and in the procedure rooms. They were great at explaining the procedures as well as thoroughly answering any questions I had. Going to the dentist really isn't what I'd call a fun day, but Dr. Condrey and his staff made the experience easy and painless. They were all a pleasure to work with and I would certainly give the highest recommendations for anyone needing to see a periodontist. Whether you live in Sugar Land or anywhere in the surrounding areas, Dr. Condrey is the doctor to see.
- Janis C
Patient Review
Very happy with the staff, they were very concern and helpful.The Dr. did a great job explaining want was going to be happening step by step. Did a wonderful job with the implants and made sure I was doing ok. Big Thanks
- Joyce A
Patient Review
Very friendly and professional staff. Prompt attention. All questions answered thoroughly.
- Ivelysse S
Patient Review
Friendly and professional. I feel like I am in good hands. I have had past issues with my teeth but thankfully, I am seeing some good progress.
- Colleen P
Patient Review
I definitely recommend Dr. Condrey for dental implants. My wife was impressed too and if she’s in the market for an implant, she won’t go anywhere but to Dr. Condrey.
- Randal D
Patient Review
I'm beginning the process for my first dental implant. You can therefore understand how apprehensive I was initially. I feel extremely comfortable and at ease with Dr. Condrey and his team since they have taken the time to explain the implant procedure to me. Importantly, in the interim, they have been very responsive to questions related to my care. My spouse first received dental care from Dr. Condrey and his staff. They are well regarded, and I concur.
- Bertha H
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his amazing staff make going to a dentist a very relaxing experience. Andrea, my dental hygienist, does a great job and always makes me feel comfortable. Dr. Condrey is a great periodontist/dentist. Highly recommend their services.
- Robin B
Patient Review
I have been very satisfied with Dr. Condrey and his staff.
- Linda J
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his staff are truly the most competent professionals in town . I am glad my dentist recommend him .
- Silvina H
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his staff are most competent professionals I have come across. I have been seeing this doctor now for about a year . I have my regular cleanings every three month, and a one time "deep cleaning". His dental hygienist is really meticulous about her work and does an excellent work. I see Dr. Condrey at least every other time I go to have my quarterly cleaning, to check on the progress of my gums that so far are improving a lot. He is very thorough in his check ups and always give me an explanation of the condition of my gums and what I should do to take care of them and my teeth. Very satisfied to be his patient! I give this office a rating of 5 Stars!
- Maria S
Patient Review
Friendly competent staff. Dr. Condrey has a calming, skillful, professional manner; he shows concern for the health of teeth and bones. I would highly recommend Dr. Condrey! I am grateful that my Dentist referred me.
- Laura T
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey is very sincere in doing the very best for his patients. He is gentle in his procedures and sensitive to his patient's requirements and requests. Andrea is fantastic, and also gentle but very detailed in her work. Wonderful experiences from the first periodontal process and every visit for cleaning since then. I highly recommend Dr. Condrey and his team!
- Sharon W