Root Scaling & Planing: Uncovering the Path to Healthier Gums and Teeth
Revitalizing Your Smile through Advanced Periodontal Therapy
Gums play a vital role in maintaining the health and stability of your teeth. Unfortunately, gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can threaten the well-being of your gums and teeth. At Union Street Dental, we prioritize proactive oral health care, and that includes offering specialized treatments like root scaling and planing to combat periodontal disease and restore the health of your smile.
Understanding Root Scaling & Planing
Root scaling and planing, often referred to as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical periodontal therapy aimed at treating and managing gum disease. It is a meticulous and comprehensive cleaning procedure that targets the root surfaces of your teeth and the pockets of infected gum tissue. Unlike regular dental cleanings, which address the surfaces of teeth above the gumline, root scaling and planing delve deeper to eliminate tartar, plaque, and bacteria accumulated beneath the gumline.
When is Root Scaling & Planing Recommended?
Root scaling and planing are typically recommended when gum disease has progressed beyond the early stages of gingivitis. Common indications for this specialized treatment include:
- Gum Inflammation: Swollen, red, and tender gums are signs of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
- Deep Gum Pockets: The presence of deep pockets between the gums and teeth indicates the progression of gum disease.
- Gum Recession: As gum disease advances, the gums may recede, exposing the sensitive tooth roots.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath that does not improve with regular oral hygiene could be a sign of gum disease.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing, are a common symptom of gum disease.
The Root Scaling & Planing Procedure
Root scaling and planing are typically performed in one or more visits, depending on the extent of gum disease and the number of quadrants requiring treatment. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Numbing the Area: Before starting the deep cleaning, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
- Removing Tartar and Plaque: Your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to meticulously remove tartar and plaque from the root surfaces of your teeth and within the gum pockets.
- Smoothing the Root Surfaces: After removing the tartar, the rough surfaces of the tooth roots are smoothed (planed) to facilitate gum tissue reattachment and discourage the accumulation of bacteria.
- Irrigation and Antibiotics: The treated areas may be irrigated with an antimicrobial solution to further reduce bacteria and promote healing.
Benefits of Root Scaling & Planing
Root scaling and planing offer numerous benefits for individuals with gum disease, including:
- Halting Disease Progression: The procedure targets and eliminates the source of gum infection, slowing or stopping the advancement of gum disease.
- Reducing Gum Pockets: Deep cleaning helps shrink gum pockets, making them easier to clean and maintain with proper oral hygiene.
- Enhanced Gum Health: By removing bacteria and promoting gum reattachment, root scaling and planing facilitate the healing and revitalization of gum tissue.
- Improved Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to various systemic health conditions, and addressing it can contribute to better overall health.
- Preserving Teeth: Treating gum disease effectively helps preserve the supporting structures of your teeth, reducing the risk of tooth loss.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following root scaling and planing, it is essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental check-ups. Your dentist may recommend additional follow-up appointments to monitor your gum health and ensure the success of the treatment.
Root scaling and planing are powerful tools in the fight against gum disease, helping to restore gum health and preserve the foundation of your smile. At Union Street Dental, we prioritize your oral health and offer specialized treatments to address gum disease effectively. If you suspect gum disease or have noticed any signs of periodontal issues, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team. Together, we can embark on the path to healthier gums and teeth, revitalizing your smile for a lifetime of oral well-being.
