Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing
Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing
Periodontists use scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar that cause gum tissue inflammation. The non-surgical procedure is generally a successful treatment for individuals facing the early stages of gum disease but can also be part of a treatment plan for those with moderate to severe gum disease.
Why Your Dentist Might Recommend Scaling and Root Planing?
This procedure is both preventative and can serve as a treatment method for those suffering from periodontal disease. Your dentist might recommend scaling and root planing for the following reasons.
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Preventing disease: when bacteria builds up in the pockets between your gums and teeth, it can lead to serious disease if it makes it to your bloodstream. You might not expect this, but infection from your gums can lead to lung infections and even heart disease. Scaling and root planing prevent gum disease from developing and harming the whole body.
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Protecting teeth: the deeper the pockets between your gums and teeth become, the more risk you face of periodontal disease. Once the periodontal disease progresses to your jawbone, it can leave you with loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
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Keeping your smile beautiful: while the main goal of scaling and root planing is to remove harmful and dangerous bacteria from your mouth, the procedure also removes stains from your teeth. Your smile will look bright and radiant after treatment.
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Improving bad breath: a common symptom of gum disease is bad breath. By removing the bad breath causing bacteria, you can avoid this social inconvenience.
What’s the Process for Scaling and Root Planing?
Before suggesting a scaling and root planing treatment, your dentist will complete a thorough oral exam. Your dentist will also take X-rays to help in diagnosing the cause of your oral health issue.
Part of this process includes understanding the plaque and tartar present in your mouth and how deep the pockets between your gums and teeth are. This will tell your dentist whether or not you’ll need anesthetic for the procedure.
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Scaling: your dentist will use an ultrasonic scaling tool to remove plaque and tartar from your tooth's crown and roots. The tool will also irrigate your teeth and gums with an antimicrobial treatment to reduce oral bacteria.
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Root planing: during this process, your dentist will smooth your tooth’s root surface to avoid bacteria from colonizing. It also promotes healthy root healing after bacterial infections.
To complete the procedure, your dentist will apply antibiotics to your gum pockets to soothe them. You’ll return to our office for a follow-up appointment where we’ll check to see how your gums are healing. Patients who still have gum pockets that measure 3 mm or more might need additional treatments.
If you’re concerned you might be suffering from gum disease, contact our office immediately. We’ll determine the best treatment options to help you heal and prevent future infections.
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