Scaling and root planing for gum disease is an often performed dental procedure that involves cleaning deep down toward the tooth root and below the gum line to remove built-up plaque and tartar. It is a more extensive form of routine dental cleaning and often necessary when treating advanced cases of gum disease.
Minor instances of gum disease can often be treated through improvements in your at-home oral health routine and through routine dental cleanings. However, scaling and root planing is often a better solution. The following is a review of how dentists use scaling and root planing to clean the gums and treat gum disease in the long term.
Gum disease, also called periodontitis, refers to an oral infection that damages the gums and the underlying jawbone. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, gum swelling, gums that move away from teeth (gum recession), pockets between the teeth and gums, and bone loss. It is most often caused by poor oral hygiene and relatively easy to prevent with consistent oral care and regular dental visits.
Gingivitis is considered by many to be a mild form of gum disease, although some dentists separate the term from periodontitis. Gingivitis is milder and typically able to be treated through less extensive measures than scaling and root planing.
Scaling and root planing is a way to treat severe cases of gum disease, particularly those that are not able to be properly addressed through routine cleanings or improvements in oral care. The procedure involves cleaning the crown of the tooth, removing plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line, and going deeper toward the tooth root and underneath the gum line to remove bacteria and plaque.
As mentioned, scaling and root planing is necessary for severe cases of gum disease. Some symptoms of severe gum disease that may indicate that scaling and root planing is needed include severe bleeding when pressure is placed upon the gums, abnormal swelling of the gums, bone loss in the jaw, gum recession and loose teeth. If these symptoms exist, then it is important to contact a dentist as soon as possible.
The patient can return home after scaling and root planing. Some discomfort may exist, although it typically goes away within 24 hours and can be managed through over-the-counter pain relief medication. The dentist should also provide dietary limitations during the recovery, which may include reducing the consumption of sugar and avoiding foods that are hard to chew or sticky.
You can reach our dental team by phone or email to learn more about gum disease treatment options, and we can explain the process of scaling and root planing to you in greater detail during a consultation visit. Our dental team is friendly and happy to address any concerns you may have about gum disease and its treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mfgrassodds.com or call Michael F. Grasso DDS at (636) 777-7700 for an appointment in our Chesterfield office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Chesterfield, MO.
Gum disease is often hard to avoid; however, once it is detected, patients can immediately visit their general dentist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. In order for it to be detected, the dentist will have to rely on any symptoms or signs that indicate a problem. Ready to learn more about the signs?Sometimes when…
If you're suffring from gum disease, you probably have the bacteria in your mouth to blame. At any time, humans have over 500 different types of bacteria living in their digestive system. Their primary purpose is to ensure proper food digestion and maintain intestinal health. Also, they fortify the immune system and help it combat…
Laser dentistry has been a popular method of dental care for the last several decades. Lasers are perceived as less painful and more effective than traditional dental treatment methods and can be used for a variety of procedures with a high degree of precision.With the use of lasers for dental procedures, patients experience less pain,…
Many people are choosing laser dentistry options to correct gum conditions. Crooked, misshapen, and discolored teeth can ruin a smile. But gum problems can also make you feel self-conscious and want to avoid opening your mouth. Some gum issues can affect your oral health and overall wellness too. Instead of going to the periodontist's office…
Dental veneers are a popular way to transform your smile and a common cosmetic dental service offered by general dentists. These thin, shell-like porcelain or composite resin covers go directly over the front of natural teeth after a quick preparation process. Because of their ability to make teeth appear uniform in shape, size, and color…
Your cosmetic dentist can transform your smile by providing tailor-fit treatments. Creating your care plan will depend on your features. Doing so will have more natural results. Here is how your cosmetic dentist tailors specific treatments to your features.Procedures in this field need more than a dentist’s technical skills. The cosmetic dentist must also possess…