Scaling & Root Planing – Sugar Land, TX
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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
great dr and experience
- harriet f
Patient Review
I especially liked how well you kept me informed about how my procedure was to be done. Do not send the gift certificate but enjoy it yourself. You deserve it. Thanks for your service.
- David Giebelhaus P
Patient Review
first time back to a dentist in a while. Dr. Condrey and his staff made me very comfortable and got me back to a routine dental schedule.
- Gary G
Patient Review
I have been a patient of Dr Condrey for around 5 years he was referred to me by my dentist. Him and his staff are very informative and always explain everything very well. The ladies in the office are very nice also. I have complete confidence in Dr Condrey and his staff.
- John F
Patient Review
I had to do a periodontal tooth extraction and the Dr did a fantastic job, I felt I was in good hands. The staff in the office were professional and friendly to me. The team explained very well what was going on with the billing, as well as follow up dental care. Thanks to the Dr.
- Joseph E
Patient Review
Overall experience has been amazing! Staff is really helpful and nice!
- Andrea F
Patient Review
I have started the process of getting an implant for my front tooth. Dr Condrey has extracted the old tooth and done a bone graft to prepare for the implant. So far, my experience has been very positive and I have experienced no pain to speak of. I have confidence that the implant will be professionally done when completed. I would recommend this office to anyone considering a dental implant.
- Helen G
Patient Review
Highly recommend Dr. Condrey and his staff! Wonderful service from a great team!
- Joe L
Patient Review
Losing a tooth for the first time as an adult is traumatizing, and then having to find a periodontist is even scarier. Dr. Condrey is a blessing. Dr. Condrey made the whole process easy and seamless. Dr. Condrey's staff is kind and has a calming energy. I was a nervous wreck, and his team of ladies answered all my questions and truly made me feel better about my situation. Words can not describe the amount of stress I was feeling, and Dr.Condrey and his team truly helped me feel better.
- Gloria L
Patient Review
This experience was very good and all the staff and Doctor were great.
- Richard Elliott T
Patient Review
My appointment was at 11:00, he started at 11:00, Very nice. The nurses were very nice and helpful. Dr Condrey talked me thru every thing he was doing when he was pulling my tooth. There was No pain and little discomfort. Over, a good experience.
- Wayne T
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and staff are very wonderful and very nice to me. I really liked and appreciated how Dr. Condrey explained what was going to happen during each steps of my first gum surgery procedure and it made me feel less nervous about the surgery procedure. l also liked how appreciative and kind he is to call and check in on me the day after I had my first gum surgery to make sure I was doing okay. Also I really appreciate how Dr. Condrey said that I could call him with any questions I may have about the procedure before and after.
- Megan L
Patient Review
Very please
- Connie H
Patient Review
The staff is the friendliest staff ever. I’ve never had to wait for an appointment, they are always on time. Dr. Condrey is the best dentist I’ve ever met. He always answers all my questions and is very concerned about my well-being.
- Tim F
Patient Review
Everything went well and I would recommend Dr. Condrey and this office to everyone.
- Maria H
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey & his staff are amazing! Very professional, knowledgeable & friendly. I would highly recommend Dr. Condrey for all periodontal issues!
- Connie A
Patient Review
Very professional staff and Dr. Condrey has great “bedside manner”.
- Kaye E
Patient Review
Dr. Condrey and his staff are very professional and clearly explained my options. After the procedure, I had no pain or discomfort even though I had expected it! I would recommend Dr. Condrey to anyone requiring periodontal treatment / procedures.
- Eric K
Patient Review
Having to have a tooth pulled for an implant certainly isn't anything I looked forward to, but Dr. Condrey and his staff definitely made it as pleasant as possible. They were all extremely kind and respectful each time I was there. Thank you to all of you!
- Ann P
Patient Review
I would strongly recommend Dr Condrey and I'm glad I was referred to him. Five-star doctor with a five-star staff.
- Greg H