When you come in for your regular dental check-up, your hygienist provides a standard cleaning to remove tartar and plaque, boosting oral health and appearance. If signs of advanced gum disease are present, scaling and root planing may be recommended.
Why Scaling and Root Planing? Your biannual cleaning aims to prevent gum disease. If signs are already present, scaling and root planing become necessary. Healthy gums should snugly fit around teeth, but buildup can cause them to recede, forming pockets for bacteria and infection.
During the Procedure: This non-invasive treatment involves removing tartar and plaque from teeth and below the gum line, followed by smoothing the tooth roots to hinder bacterial regrowth. Your dentist or hygienist uses specialized tools for this.
Can It Be Done in One Visit? The number of visits varies. While some may require only one appointment with mild anesthesia, others might need multiple visits for comprehensive cleaning and treatment.
Is It Painful? Most patients find the procedure tolerable with mild anesthesia. Afterward, your gums will feel relieved as plaque, tartar, and toxins are removed, allowing for healing.
Aftercare: Follow-up visits assess gum health and pocket depth. In many cases, gums will return to a healthy state, with reduced or no bleeding. Further treatment may be needed for severe cases.
Preparation: Inform your dentist of any medical conditions, especially those affecting immunity or heart health, as bacteria can enter the bloodstream during the procedure.
Call Somerset Smiles today to schedule a consultation and learn if scaling and root planing can enhance your smile and oral health!
