If you go for regular dental exams and cleanings, you can avoid many teeth and gum problems, including gum disease. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can lead to gum recession and loss of teeth, and it is important to address the initial symptoms promptly. When you have issues like buildup of plaque and tartar and symptoms like bleeding gums while brushing and flossing, your Philadelphia, PA dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, which are deep dental cleaning procedures.
Why does one need scaling and root planing?
Deep dental cleaning is recommended for patients who have mild to moderate gum disease. Symptoms of periodontitis include swelling gums, bleeding, and pain. Some patients may not have pain, but the dentist may notice signs of plaque and tartar-induced damage during an oral exam.
What happens during scaling and root planing?
After an oral exam, your dentist will usually administer local anesthesia to numb the gums. They will then use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Regular dental cleaning cleans the visible part of the teeth, but scaling and root planing procedures go below the gums. If you have an advanced infection in your gums, your dentist may also inject antibiotics after cleaning. Depending on the extent of damage and tartar buildup, scaling and root planing can take about one to two hours. In some cases, the dentist may divide the steps into two appointments. A second follow-up checkup is usually needed to see the progress.
How often does one need deep cleaning procedures?
Your dentist will suggest scaling and root planing when you have moderate gum disease. The procedures are only required once, provided you go for periodic dental cleanings.
Does scaling and root planing cause pain?
No, both scaling and root planing are simple procedures done under local anesthesia, and most patients don’t feel any pain. Your gums may feel tender and swollen for the next few days, but these side effects reduce with time. Teeth sensitivity is also common but will subside in a few days.
What are the benefits of these procedures?
With scaling and root planing, it is possible to reverse gum disease. If you have symptoms related to periodontitis, such as bad breath, these procedures will address those issues, too. Advanced gum disease can cause issues with gum recession, and with scaling, you can avoid painful symptoms and the need for more complex treatments. Both scaling and root planing are simpler procedures compared to other treatments for gum disease.
What are other treatments for gum disease?
For moderate to advanced gum disease, your dentist may have to think beyond deep cleaning. If you have lost gum tissues, they may suggest getting a gum graft, for which the grafting material will be harvested from the roof of your mouth. There are also other treatments, such as bone grafting, flap surgery, and guided tissue generation, which are required when gum disease has progressed further.
Is it possible to prevent gum disease?
Yes, you can prevent gum disease. Firstly, ensure you keep up with oral hygiene habits. Brush at least twice every day and floss once a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush because over or aggressive brushing can cause gum recession. You should also check with your dentist regularly to find early signs of gum disease. Periodic cleanings can also help prevent the growth of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, which contribute to gum swelling and inflammation.
Final takeaway
Gum disease is preventable and easily treatable, provided you don’t ignore the initial symptoms. If you want to care for your teeth and gums better, ask your dentist in Philadelphia about product recommendations, including an antimicrobial mouthwash.