Scaling and Root Planing for Gum Disease

Scaling and Root Planing for Gum Disease from Modern Smiles Family Dentistry in Phoenix, AZHealthy oral habits can prevent issues that may lead to infections such as gum disease. This problem, also known as gingivitis, can be common in both children and adults; however, if it is left untreated, it may worsen and cause serious discomfort or cause secondary infections within the body. Oral treatments such as scaling and planing can battle gingivitis, help maintain good oral health and prevent future infection. Patients who plan to undergo these processes may feel greater peace of mind understanding what is involved before arriving for an appointment.

What causes gum disease?

Different types of foods and beverages can cause a bacterial film to build around the gumline where the teeth and gums meet. This is a sticky substance called plaque. If proper, regular brushing and flossing are neglected, the plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which can irritate the gums if it is not removed. This inflammation then causes gingivitis. Those who suffer from this issue may experience several different symptoms:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Gum sensitivity
  • Changes to the gingiva color
  • Receding gums

Teeth scaling and root planing can remove stubborn tartar and prevent further infection to improve a patient’s overall oral health.

How is teeth scaling performed?

Individuals with chronic or moderate gingivitis may have a dentist recommend teeth scaling as a tool for cleaning away hardened tartar at the gumline. This process is usually more involved than a simple cleaning and may take longer. Patients may be informed of additional details at the initial consultation.

During the process, a dentist may apply a local numbing agent to the area to reduce discomfort and then use several different scraping tools to remove stubborn tartar. Special attention may be paid to pockets between the teeth and gums, which can form once gingivitis advances to periodontal disease. When food particles become trapped in these pockets, it can contribute to tartar buildup. Pressurized water and ultrasonic tools may also be employed to remove areas of hardened tartar. Root planing may be performed during the same appointment.

What is root planing?

When gum disease is present, this can cause a tooth’s root to detach from the gums and create gaps that collect bacteria and food particles. These spaces can be difficult to reach with regular brushing or flossing and may eventually result in tooth loss. A dentist can attempt to reverse this process with root planing. During this procedure, plaque and tartar are removed with scraping and smoothing tools, which can prevent further infection. The affected roots are then smoothed out so bacteria can no longer collect, which allows the area to heal.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Phoenix, AZ.

What post-care actions are needed?

Because scaling and root planing both involve deep-cleaning processes, patients may experience tenderness or soreness at the treated area. Dentists typically recommend continued regular brushing and flossing to keep the area clean. Post-treatment checkups may be scheduled a few weeks after scaling and planing to ensure periodontal pockets are healing as expected.

Conclusion

Gingivitis can advance into serious gum disease when it goes untreated. Teeth scaling and root smoothing can reverse inflammation, bleeding and the eventual tooth loss that often occurs at the final stages of the disease.

Request an appointment or call Modern Smiles Family Dentistry at 602-362-7065 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

Recent Posts

3 Types Of Treatment For Gum Disease

Gum disease starts with the growth of bacteria in the mouth. When brushing or flossing does not remove this bacteria, harmful plaque accumulates and hardens into tartar. The collection of tartar along the gum line results in gingivitis, which can worsen into periodontal disease. Symptoms of this disease can be mild in the early stages,…

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. The resulting inflammation causes bone loss and eventually, tooth loss, and it can contribute to other health problems. Once a patient has been diagnosed with gum disease (periodontal disease), prompt treatment is necessary to address the condition. Most…

How Is Plaque Involved With Gum Disease?

Improper or infrequent oral care, such as failing to floss, can lead to serious gum disease. When this occurs, those who suffer from this affliction may experience a variety of troubling symptoms that are often difficult to reverse without the assistance of a dentist. However, this problem is completely preventable, especially when dental patients learn…

Recent Posts

Why You Should Consult A Cosmetic Dentist Before Your Dental Procedure

Why You Should Consult A Cosmetic Dentist Before Your Dental Procedure

Seeing a cosmetic dentist can give you the information you need if you want to have a dental procedure. A consultation with your dentist is a chance for you to ask questions about things that are relevant to your dental treatment. This dental care provider can help you make informed decisions about your aesthetic dental…

Which Cosmetic Dental Service Is Right For You?

Which Cosmetic Dental Service Is Right For You?

Cosmetic dental services have treatments that can target specific dental issues. Each one aims to enhance your smile and improve your dental health. Knowing what treatments you should get can help you prepare for your next appointment. Here are some cosmetic dental services to consider.This is one of the cosmetic dental services that can give…