Are you suffering with chronic bad breath?
Do you have a heavy buildup on your teeth?
Some patients who develop advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) may need a more extensive cleaning called a Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing. This non-surgical procedure can be done in the office using just a local anesthetic to maximize your comfort. For patients who have chronic periodontitis or gum disease, this dental service is considered to be necessary treatment.
During a regular dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will scale your teeth to remove any tartar and plaque above the gum line and slightly below the gum line. Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing is equivalent to a deep clean for your teeth. If you keep up with regular brushing, flossing and dental checkups you may never need this service.
Do I Need Scaling and Root Planing?
When periodontal disease causes bacterial plaque and tartar to accumulate deep under the gums, the tissues that support your teeth may be affected. Scaling and Root Planing is typically the first and best treatment for this dental issue. Depending on the severity of the gum disease, you may need more than one appointment to complete the procedure.
You may be experiencing some symptoms of advanced gum disease:
- Chronic bad breath
- Heavy tartar buildup
- Heavy plaque buildup
- Unhealthy tooth pockets of 4mm or more
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling involves the use of special tools to remove all tartar, plaque, and bacterial toxins from your teeth and root surfaces. Root planing is a process that smooths all rough areas on the surface of your roots. Smoother root surfaces prevent the buildup and adhesion of bacteria, plaque, and tartar under the gum line. Once this area is cleaned, your gums will heal and begin to reattach themselves to your teeth and tissue.
After the Procedure
After this deep cleaning procedure, you may experience a few days of tooth sensitivity, tenderness, and bleeding. This is normal.
Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, your Peace Haven dentist will schedule a follow-up visit—or a series of follow-up visits—for maintenance and to check on the healing of your gums and the health of your tooth pockets. Most often, your gums will return to healthy pink color and your tooth pockets will reduce in size. If you are healing well after the procedure, you may not need any further treatment.
Advanced Periodontitis
Sometimes a case of more severe periodontitis (gum disease) may require a surgical procedure to prevent the progression of bone loss. Often we will refer you to a periodontist, or gum specialist, to further treat your gum disease.
Can I Prevent Periodontitis?
In most cases periodontitis can be prevented with regular at-home dental care and regular dental checkups.
Here’s what you can do to prevent advanced gum disease:
- Brush at least twice daily with a fluoride-based toothpaste.
- Replace your toothbrush once the bristles are splayed or worn (usually monthly).
- Floss daily.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash when needed.
- Don’t smoke!
What Causes Periodontitis?
Periodontitis, or gum disease, is caused by plaque—essentially a sticky film of bacteria. This can cause inflammation in your gums. When inflammation sets in, your gums will start to pull away from your teeth and create pockets. And once plaque gets trapped in these pockets, it can’t be removed with regular brushing. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
Are you suffering with chronic bad breath or heavy buildup on your teeth?
Call Peace Haven Family Dentistry Today to schedule your dental exam.