Have you recently been diagnosed with gum disease? Are you suffering from symptoms of periodontal disease?
Imagine cleaning more than just the surface of your teeth – going deep beneath the gum line to remove hidden threats to your oral health. Root planing and scaling is like a deep, therapeutic treatment for your gums, targeting the root causes of periodontal disease before they can compromise your smile.
We offer root planing and scaling at Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Alpharetta, GA. Dr. Silverman offers the root planing and scaling service to treat mild and advanced cases of gum disease.
What is Root Planing and Scaling?
Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful and healthy smile, but gum disease can compromise your oral health if left untreated.
Root planing and scaling is a comprehensive deep cleaning that goes far beyond your typical dental hygiene appointment to fight periodontal disease.
During your appointment, we meticulously remove:
- Stubborn plaque and tartar buildup
- Bacterial deposits below the gum line
- Rough spots on tooth roots that trap bacteria
- Early signs of gum disease
There are times when antibiotics must be prescribed in order to kill and remove all of the bacteria. And to make the procedure as comfortable as possible, some patients choose sedation dentistry. Sedation can be an option if you would like, too.
Gum Disease Can Create Major Health Problems
Do you know that gum disease and periodontal disease can create major health problems if not treated early on?
As a matter of fact, gum disease and periodontal disease can spread to other parts of the body and create any of the following problems:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Diabetes complications
- Pregnancy risks (i.e. premature birth)
- Pancreatic cancer
- Respiratory disease
- Respiratory infections
- Digestive disorders
- Heart disease
- Inflammatory conditions
Symptoms of Gum Disease and Periodontal Disease
Classic signs of gum disease include:
- Bleeding, swollen, or red gums
- Receding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Sensitive gums
If gum disease is not caught early on, the condition may progress to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease requires careful treatment and extra care.
Classic signs of periodontal disease include
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Swollen gums
- Inflamed gums
- Purple or bright red gums
- Pus appearing between the gum line and teeth (called pyorrhea)
- Persistent bad taste in your mouth
- Mouth sores
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting down
- Spaces between the teeth that develop over time
Who Needs Root Planing and Scaling?
This treatment is recommended for patients with:
- Gum Disease (Periodontitis): When gums are inflamed, bleed easily, or have receded.
- Deep Pockets: Spaces between the teeth and gums where bacteria accumulate.
- Bone Loss: Early signs of bone deterioration caused by advanced gum disease.
Benefits of Root Planing and Scaling
- Stops Gum Disease Progression: Removes harmful bacteria that cause inflammation.
- Prevents Tooth Loss: Protects the structures supporting your teeth.
- Improves Oral Health: Reduces bad breath and promotes healthier gums.
- Minimally Invasive: A non-surgical solution for managing gum disease.
What to Expect During the Root Planing and Scaling Procedure
- Examination: We’ll assess your gums and measure pocket depths to determine the extent of the treatment needed.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience.
- Scaling: Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline.
- Root Planing: The tooth roots are smoothed to encourage gum healing and reattachment.
The procedure may be completed in one visit or over multiple sessions, depending on the severity of the condition.
Aftercare and Recovery
After root planing and scaling, you might experience minor gum tenderness, slight sensitivity, temporary changes in gum color, and/or minor gum swelling, which typically subsides in a few days. We’ll provide personalized care instructions, including:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Using a prescribed mouth rinse.
- Scheduling regular dental appointments at our office to monitor your progress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Planing and Scaling
We prioritize your comfort! We use local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some patients choose sedation dentistry. Sedation can be an option if you would like, too.
Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The duration depends on the severity of gum disease. For extensive cases, the treatment may be spread over multiple visits. We typically complete the procedure in 1-2 appointments.
Treatment frequency depends on your individual oral health. Some patients need annual treatments, while others might require more frequent interventions.
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of root planing and scaling. Our friendly team will help you navigate dental insurance details and explore affordable dental financing options, as well as our in-house dental membership plan.
While we can’t completely reverse all damage, we can significantly halt progression and prevent further complications.
Root planing and scaling significantly improve gum health and can stop the progression of gum disease. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are crucial for long-term results.
Schedule your gum Disease Treatment Appointment Today
A healthy mouth includes healthy gums and teeth. So don’t wait for minor gum issues to become major problems.
Our friendly, gentle dental team is ready to provide the deep, thorough cleaning your mouth deserves. One appointment could save you from future dental complications and protect your overall health.
If you need to schedule your appointment, contact us online or call our office in Alpharetta. A periodontal checkup is something very important to promote healthy teeth and gums. We look forward to providing effective gum disease treatment for your smile.