Periodontal mechanical treatment consists in scaling and root planing.
Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Root planing smoothes the surface of the root. This prevents tartar buildup.
Indications:
- This treatment is the first and essential step for every periodontal treatment. It involves eliminating plaque, which is the culprit in periodontal disease.
- The patient has a health condition that contraindicates surgery.
Contra-indications:
Absolute
- Severe heart disease
- Hemophilia
- Leukemia
- Radiation therapy of the orofacial sphere
Relative
- Cardiovascular disease
- Nerve disease
- Renal disease
- Endocrinal disease
- Acute articular rheumatism
Factors affecting the results:
- Bad hygiene.
- Insufficient planing and root planing.
- Irregular or absence of check-ups (Irregular maintenance).
- Certain systemic diseases such as AIDS or diabetes can impact the long-term prognostic.
- Tobacco can reduce the immune system’s response and increase the susceptibility to relapse of periodontal disease.
Maintenance:
After 6 weeks, an appointment is scheduled to examine the patient’s response to the treatment. If the nonsurgical therapy is successful in eliminating gum disease, periodic maintenance is the next required step.
