Dental Code D4342: Periodontal scaling and root planing - one to three teeth per quadrant

Dental Code D4342 refers to a specific dental procedure known as periodontal scaling and root planing (SRP) performed on one to three teeth per quadrant. 

On average, patients pay $210 for this D4342 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $135 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $230 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$135	$210	$230

However, the price for the service D4342 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

Dental Code D4342, periodontal scaling and root planing - one to three teeth per quadrant, is a billing code used in dentistry to describe a treatment aimed at managing and improving the health of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is commonly employed in addressing gum disease or periodontitis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the surrounding tissues.

Before initiating the periodontal scaling and root planing procedure, a comprehensive examination is conducted to assess the patient's oral health. This examination includes a visual inspection of the gums, measurement of periodontal pocket depths, and X-rays to evaluate the bone level and detect any underlying issues. The dentist or periodontist will also review the patient's medical and dental history to identify any risk factors or systemic conditions that may contribute to gum disease. Based on the findings, a diagnosis is made, and an appropriate treatment plan is developed.

To ensure patient comfort during the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the treatment area. The dentist or periodontist will use a topical gel or inject a local anesthetic near the affected teeth and gums. This helps minimize any discomfort or sensitivity experienced throughout the process.

The scaling process involves the meticulous removal of plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. These deposits, known as calculus, accumulate over time and contribute to gum disease. Scaling is performed using specialized instruments, such as ultrasonic scalers or hand scalers. Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations and a water spray to remove the deposits, while hand scalers have curved tips that allow the dentist or dental hygienist to access hard-to-reach areas. The dental professional will gently and thoroughly remove these deposits, ensuring all surfaces of the teeth are clean. This step aims to eliminate the source of infection and promote the healing of gum tissues.

Following scaling, the next step is root planing. This process entails smoothing out the surfaces of the tooth roots, which are located beneath the gum line. Root planing aims to remove any remaining bacteria, toxins, and roughness that may contribute to gum disease progression. The dental professional uses specialized instruments, such as curettes, to carefully remove the bacterial deposits and smooth the root surfaces. By creating a smooth surface, the gums can more effectively reattach to the tooth roots, promoting proper healing. During root planing, the dental professional meticulously removes the bacterial biofilm that may have accumulated on the tooth roots. This biofilm contains harmful bacteria that can lead to further inflammation and damage to the gums if left untreated. By smoothing out the root surfaces, the dental professional helps to eliminate rough areas where bacteria can easily adhere, reducing the risk of reinfection. Additionally, root planing facilitates the reattachment of the gum tissues to the root surfaces, promoting a tighter seal and preventing the formation of new periodontal pockets. This step is crucial in halting the progression of gum disease and promoting the long-term stability of the teeth and supporting structures.

In certain cases, antibiotic therapy may be prescribed to control and prevent infection. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied topically to the treated areas. They work by targeting and killing the bacteria responsible for the gum disease. Antibiotic therapy is typically recommended when there are signs of active infection or when the periodontal disease is more severe. The use of antibiotics alongside periodontal scaling and root planing can help enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and promote optimal healing.

Dental Code D4342 represents the periodontal scaling and root planing procedure performed on one to three teeth per quadrant. This treatment plays a crucial role in managing and improving the health of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The procedure involves a comprehensive examination to assess the oral health condition, followed by the administration of local anesthesia for patient comfort. Meticulous scaling and root planing are then performed to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline. By eliminating the source of infection and creating a smooth root surface, the gums can heal properly. Antibiotic therapy may be utilized if there is an active infection or severe periodontal disease. It is essential to maintain regular dental visits and practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses, to prevent the progression of gum disease and ensure optimal oral health.

Please note that for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your specific dental needs, it is vital to consult with your dentist or periodontist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual requirements.

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