Scaling And Root Planing

This process involves a more complex cleaning of the teeth done by the hygienist or doctor.  During this process, the tooth is cleaned down to the roots. A local anesthetic may be used in order to minimize any pain or discomfort you may feel.

During this procedure, an ultrasonic tool is used to scrape the deposits off of your teeth. If your gum disease is less severe, a standard scraping tool may be used in order to lessen discomfort. The doctor may also place fibers that contain antibiotics between your teeth and gums in order to kill bacteria and speed up the healing process. If fibers are necessary in order to give you completely clean teeth, they will typically be removed about a week after the procedure is done.

Many patients have little to no discomfort when they have scaling and root planing done. If you require anesthetic, your lips and gums may remain numb for several hours.  This process is a simple and fairly painless way to ensure that you have clean teeth, and that the spread of gum disease is stopped before it becomes too harmful for your mouth.

In order for the scaling and root planing procedure to be successful long-term, it is important that you return to a consistent schedule of good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, and make sure to schedule visits twice a year for a dental check-up and cleaning. Scaling and root planning can be successful as long as good dental hygiene is performed afterwards in order to stop the return of gum disease. If you are dealing with the early stages of gum disease, this procedure is a great way to reduce spreading and stop future development of the disease.

The doctor performs this simple procedure in order to ensure that your teeth and mouth are as healthy as possible. Once you notice the initial stages of this disease, schedule an appointment immediately to deal with the problem.