ROOT PLANNING

the removal of hard deposits, with metal scalers, on the root surface and smoothing the root surface to allow for reattachment of the gums to the tooth and ultimately pocket reduction

A

abscess: a local infection resulting in the collection of pus under pressure. A dental abscess may be caused by severe decay, trauma, or gum disease and will be characterized by swelling and pain. If an abscess ruptures, it will be accompanied by sudden relief from pain and a foul taste in the mouth.

aerobic bacteria: good bacteria that lives with oxygen in the mouth, feeds on dead skin cells and bacteria in the mouth.

amalgam: a commonly used silver colored filling made of a mix of silver, tin, mercury, and some other trace elements like copper.

anaerobic bacteria: bad bacteria that does not need oxygen to grow, thrives on dead matter (food) and sugar, causes bad breath and promotes oral decay.