What Is Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a vital dental procedure that concerns the removal of plaque and tartar stuck in the gum line. Also called deep cleaning, this technique is necessary when the patient’s bones, gums, and surrounding tissues get damaged due to gum or periodontal disease.
When Is Scaling & Root Planing Recommended?
Scaling and root planing are recommended when the starting stages of gum disease get diagnosed. During a professional dental cleaning, the hygienist will concentrate on clearing plaque from the surface of the tooth & the gum line. Scaling & root planing is a deep cleaning process that eliminates plaque and dangerous bacteria.
When gum disease is present, gums get red, inflamed, and even bleed while brushing and flossing. As plaque and bacteria gather below the gum line, it pushes the tissue near the tooth to isolate from the enamel, generating pockets of infection. If the infection is left untreated, these pockets will continue to worsen and need more comprehensive treatment.
Symptoms & Signs Of Gum Disease?
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath that does not go
- Tooth sensitivity to cold and hot
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Periodontal disease
- Jawbone loss
Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing
If treatment of scaling and root planing is successful, it may have many periodontal benefits.
1. Prevents Disease
Gum disease can be stopped by successful scaling and root planing in Livermore. Bacteria from gums can penetrate the bloodstream and travels to other body organs, resulting in damaging other body parts, if left untreated. Sometimes the bacteria can even drive heart and respiratory diseases.
2. Protecting Teeth
Another benefit of periodontal scaling and root planing treatment is that it protects against tooth loss. When gum pockets surpass 4+ millimeters in-depth, the chance of severe periodontal disease boosts. As pockets form deepen, more bacteria can inhabit, ultimately causing a chronic inflammatory reaction as the body tries to kill impacted gingival and bone tissue. And, this finally leads to tooth loss.
Aesthetics
Scaling and root planing can also make the mouth more aesthetically attractive. It also facilitates bad breath induced by food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Stains on the surface of the teeth will also be removed during the scaling and root planing procedure.
APPOINTMENTS REQUIRED
The whole scaling and root planing procedure require 2 to 3 appointments to confirm all tartar is cleared. The tissue within the teeth is susceptible. Therefore, a local anesthetic assures only minor discomfort during the scaling and root planing procedure.
An appointment is planned within 6 weeks of the initial scaling and root planing procedure to reevaluate the formation of bacteria and suggest the next steps.
Scaling & Root Planing In Livermore
If you are also suffering from gum infection & want to get your condition checked, you must visit our dental office in Livermore. We have the best staff & the dentists, Dr. Steven & Dr. Harley Williams to help you get the required service. So, call us today & book your appointment now!