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Dental scaling
Introduction
- Active plaque is the cause of periodontal disease Periodontal disease.
- Plaque is a biofilm of salivary proteins and oral bacteria which adheres to the exposed tooth surface. Plaque is a very stable environment, which can be affected only very minimally by chemicals such as disinfectants and antibiotics. Plaque elimination requires mechanical removal.
- If plaque persists for a prolonged period it can become calcified to form calculus Teeth: calculus. Calculus is a largely inert material, however it has two factors that promote the progression of periodontal disease. It increases surface area, which is rough and aids plaque deposition. It accumulates around the gingival margin, reducing oxygen tension here and promotes the proliferation of anaerobic bacteria. It is these that are presumed to be responsible for the progression from gingivitis Gingival enlargement to periodontitis.
- Dental scaling, carried out under anesthetic, is used to remove calculus from the tooth surface.
- Daily tooth brushing is required to prevent further plaque deposition.
Uses
- To remove calculus from the teeth and provide a smooth tooth surface that discourages further plaque and calculus decomposition.
- Conservative management of periodontal disease Periodontal disease.
Advantages
- Required to treat early periodontal disease, which in combination with daily tooth brushing, can result in the resolution of clinical signs. Required to treat periodontitis, which in combination with daily tooth brushing, can result in the prevention of progression of clinical signs.
Disadvantages
- Requires general anesthesia General anesthesia: overview.
Alternative techniques
- Proper home dental care, consisting of daily tooth brushing, may increase the interval between prophylactics, but periodic dental sealing will still be necessary.
Time required
Preparation
- 15-45 minutes depending on the severity of calculus and other oral lesions.
Procedure
- Varies depending on extent of disease and associated dental work required.
Decision taking
Criteria for choosing test
- Teeth not suitable for preservation will require dental extraction Dental extraction.
Requirements
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Preparation
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Technique
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Aftercare
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Outcomes
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