Scaling and Root Planing: Effective Treatment for Gum Diseases

What is Gum Disease and Its Causes?

Gum disease is the inflammation of the gums, and it develops in two stages– gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis (the first stage) is reversible, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Periodontitis is the late or advanced stage of gum disease, and it causes receding and bone and tooth loss.

Plaque (a sticky film) accumulation is the primary cause of gum disease. Anyone can develop gum disease, but risk factors like smoking predispose you to the disease.

Periodontal disease has been linked to other health problems, like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Visit a dentist near you for assessment when you notice bleeding or tender gums.

The Early Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease often progresses without a trace because it does not present symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease advances, you will notice bleeding gums, receding gums, and bad breath. See your dentist in 34236 immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a common dental procedure used to treat gum disease. The procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots and smoothing the roots to prevent future buildup.

During the early stages of gum disease, the dentist performs the scaling and root planing procedure. But, as the disease progresses, other treatments such as antibiotics may be necessary.

What Are the Scaling and Root Planing Benefits?

First and foremost, it’s an incredibly effective way to treat gum disease. Scaling helps remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from teeth, while root planing gets rid of the bacteria that cause gum disease in the first place.

But that’s not all. Scaling and root planing can also help improve your oral health in other ways. It brightens up your teeth and helps reduce bad breath. Plus, it can help keep your gums healthy and free from infection.

How Does Scaling and Root Planning Differ from Regular Cleaning?

When you visit a dental office in Sarasota t for regular cleaning, the dentist only cleans the surface of your teeth. However, if you have gum disease, your dentist needs to use scaling and root planing to remove the tartar from the teeth and gums.

Scaling is a process that uses special instruments to remove the plaque and tartar from the teeth. Root planing is a process that uses a sharp implement to smooth out the teeth’ roots, which helps prevent further plaque and tartar buildup.

Is Scaling and Root Planing Effective Treatment for Gum Disease?

Yes, scaling and root planing is an effective periodontal treatment. It’s considered the most common and effective treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. During a scaling and root planing procedure, your dentist will remove the plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from your teeth and roots using special dental instruments. This will help to restore your teeth and gums to a healthy state.

What Are the Risks Associated with Scaling and Root Planing?

As with any dental procedure, scaling and root planing come with a certain amount of risk.

Some of the risks associated with scaling and root planing include:

• Injuring the gums or tooth roots
• Infection
• Damage to the enamel
• Bleeding

These problems can clear out within a few days, but visit an emergency dentist in Sarasota for assistance if they persist.

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

Gingivae infection can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if not treated properly. Fortunately, it is also preventable. Proper dental hygiene (brushing and flossing) is the primary way of preventing gum disease. However, it is recommended to avoid acidic foods and drinks and smoking. Also, visit your dentist or dental hygienist regularly to check for and treat gum disease.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Tarpon Shores Dental for more information about gum disease and what you can expect during the scaling and root planing procedure.