The removal of plaque, bacteria and tartar from the root and teeth surface is known as scaling, whereas root planing involves smoothing the affected parts of the tooth under the gum line. This makes it difficult for the tartar, plaque and toxins to settle there. It also gives the gums time to heal and reconnect to the tooth.
How often you need the procedure depends on the condition your gums are in. Some of these reasons could be pockets formed when the gums pull away from the teeth or if you are developing or have gum disease.
The procedure could be done twice a year when you visit your dentist for a cleaning or whenever your dentist finds it necessary. Untreated gum diseases could result in tooth or bone loss.
Procedures
It may take more than one appointment, depending on the seriousness of your condition. Your dentist may use a local anaesthetic to make the procedure pleasant for you. If you are feeling discomfort even after the aesthetic administration, consult your dentist so that they can give an aesthetic more suitable for you.
The first step of scaling and root planing procedure is scraping any plaque and tartar from the teeth or pockets formed between your teeth and gums. Then using a scaling tool, the teeth are smoothened. Other tools that could be used include a curette, lasers and other ultrasonic devices.
Periodontal disease treatment procedures such as a gingival flap or tissue grafting might be done if you have a severe case of gum disease. A host modulation treatment process might also be done on you to help the long term effects caused by periodontitis. The procedure is also used to reduce any chances of infection after the procedure.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing focuses on cleaning the gum line and roots more compared to the regular dental cleaning. To enjoy the benefits of deep teeth and gum cleaning, visit our dentist in Sugar Land, TX.
Some of these benefits are:
Improved and better oral health – Your dental health will be at a better condition if your gums and roots are free from plaque and bacteria. It eliminates the risk of gum diseases, tooth loss, and even bad breath.
Prevents gum disease from progressing – Gum disease at its early stage is easy to treat and inexpensive. Scaling and root planing ensures that it doesn’t progress saving you from experiencing receding gum lines, painful infections or tooth loss. Gingivitis which is associated with bleeding gums while brushing will be a thing of the past for you. Dental complications are also prevented from recurring when the dentist reseals the pockets.
Protects the overall health – Gum diseases over the years have been linked with complications such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, among others. The reason being the bacteria causing periodontitis can enter into the bloodstream spreading to other parts of your body organs such as the brain and heart. Professional cleaning from the dentist can prevent this from happening.
Attractive smile – During the procedure plaque and stains will be removed. Your gums will look less swollen and red. Shiny pink looking gums will compliment your smile, boosting your self-esteem.
After Care Tips for Scaling and Root Planing
After the detailed procedure, you should expect pain and sensitivity for a few days. Your dentist will prescribe you drugs that will help you with the problem, stop any infections and speed up the recovery process.
They may be in the form of pills or a mouth rinse. Another appointment will be scheduled to monitor how your gums have healed and the depth of the sockets.
You are also expected to continue with your regular oral hygiene care. This prevents recurring of the disease or accumulation of plaque on your teeth.
Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush gently. After the procedure, do not take hard foods before the healing process is over. Take a healthy diet and avoid smoking.
Call our Star Plus Dental specialist if you are experiencing severe pain, have a fever, or you are not healing as expected.