Here’s What You Need To Know About Scaling And Root Planing.
Periodontal disease develops and causes inflammation when bacterial plaque and tartar accumulate around and under the gums. This swelling is also known as periodontitis, could affect both your teeth and supporting bone in the mouth and may ultimately result in loss of teeth. At this point, you may need the service of scaling and root planing near you.
Scaling and root planning are a string of dental procedures known as deep cleaning and are recommended to prevent the formation and accumulation of bacterial plaque and tartar around and under the gums.
You might wonder if there’s a difference between scaling or root planning, the procedure, or have concerns about its safety. This article will help you understand more.
What Causes Periodontitis?
Poor dental hygiene is characterized by failure to brush your teeth twice a day or get routine teeth cleanings with your dentist, making the dental plaque formed between your teeth not be removed completely. Over time, the plaque hardens into tartar, and bacteria spread to the gums eventually leading to early gum disease, or gingivitis, and then eventually periodontitis.
Other common causes and risk factors for the development of periodontitis include:
- Smoking
- Poor nutrition
- Family history
- Aging
- Changes in hormones
- Other medical conditions
Symptoms Of Periodontitis
These can range from mild to extreme including:
- Red and swollen gums
- Inflammation below or around the gums
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Sudden teeth misalignment or an incorrect bite
- Gums that bleed on probing (such as flossing)
- Loose teeth or gums that pull away from the teeth
- Bad breath, even after brushing
Is There Difference Between Scaling And Root Planing?
Both procedures are important parts of maintaining good oral and dental health. Scaling is the clearing away of the tartar and plaque on the surface of the teeth above the gum line while Root planing is the process in which any area of the tooth root that is infected by bacteria is cleaned. Thus, the treatment for periodontitis involves the removal of plaque and tartar and subsequent smoothening of the root of the tooth where it sits beneath the gum line.
Scaling And Root Planing: How It Works.
Scaling is the first step in this process, involving a curette, or a scraping tool, to remove plaque stacked above and below the gum line and to the bottom of the pocket. Afterward, root planing is performed to smoothen out the teeth’ roots, which is what helps the gums reattach themselves to your teeth. Local anesthesia is typically administered to keep you comfortable while your teeth are deep cleaned, although a scaling and root planing treatment is considered non-surgical. Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, you might have more than one scaling and root planing treatment to clean your gums of all infections. However, once completed, your gums and teeth will often be sore for the next few days and can remain sensitive up to a week after the procedure. The use of a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinsing the mouth with mouthwash are both great ways to ease the pain you might feel and will be beneficial during the gum restoration process.
What Are The Benefits Of Teeth Scaling And Root Planing?
Teeth scaling and root planing are considered to be the “gold standard” treatment for chronic periodontal disease. This procedure will help reduce your risk of experiencing tooth, bone, and tissue loss associated with chronic periodontal disease. Shanaka L. Weerasooriya is an emergency dentist in Venice who can provide you with quality scaling and root planing services near you. See a dentist in 34285.
How Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?
It is essential to follow through with regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations as gum disease can develop suddenly and without warning. Hence, a good homecare routine is vital in preventing gum disease from developing.
Brush with a soft toothbrush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and replace your toothbrush at least once in 3 months or when the bristles are worn.
Floss daily to clean between your teeth and bridgework, crowns, or implants.
Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
Eat a balanced diet.
Smoking cessation.