Benefits of Scaling and Root Planning

Periodontal disease is a key oral concern affecting millions of adults and children globally. Gum or periodontal disease refers to the infection and inflammation of the gum tissues. Acidic attacks from bacterial plaque and tartar mainly cause it.

Excellent oral hygiene and habits are perfect ways to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy gums and mouth. Similarly, you can reverse gum disease if caught and treated early. If you notice that your gums are sore or bleed when brushing, you might have gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease.

Gingivitis is easily treated and reversible with non-surgical treatments like good at-home dental hygiene and deep cleaning. If not addressed on time, gum disease can advance, developing below the gum line and causing severe complications. That’s where dental scaling and root planing come in!

What are Tooth Scaling and Root Planing?

In advanced gum disease, bacterial plaque and tartar form below the gum line, separating the gums from the teeth – what’s referred to as gum recession. The infection can also damage the underlying connective tissues and bone, leading to loose teeth, tooth loss, jawbone damage, and other complications.

Dental scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is needed to remove bacterial plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and below and above the gum line to stop the infection and prevent tooth loss, bone loss, and other complications.

In scaling, the dentist uses a scalar to scrap off bacterial tartar and plaque from the teeth and gum pockets. It stops the infection and allows the gums to re-attach to the teeth firmly.

Root planing involves smoothing rough spots on or near the teeth roots to prevent further plaque build-up and allow the gums to re-attach to the teeth easily.

Deep cleanings require one or two dental appointments based on the amount of build-up. Fortunately, you will be numbed to prevent pain or discomfort during the procedure. After the treatment, the dentist can provide antibiotics to prevent new infections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged gums, jawbone, and other tissues.

Signs You Might Have Gum Disease

The earlier you diagnose gum disease, the easier it is to treat. See your dentist as soon as possible if you have the following symptoms:

• Gums that bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating
• Sore or sensitive gums
• Loose or falling teeth
• Red or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath or halitosis
• Receding gums
• Teeth appear to be longer than they normally are
• Sensitive or painful teeth
• Pain when chewing

The dentist will examine your gums to determine the extent of the damage caused by gum disease and recommend the best treatment option to restore the health of your gums and mouth.

Dental Scaling and Root Planing Benefits

There are several benefits of deep cleaning, including:

• • Eliminates bad breath

Halitosis is a common sign of bacterial plaque and tartar buildup, advanced gum disease, and tooth decay. Dental scaling and root planing can help manage gum infection and remove bacterial deposits, giving you fresher breath.

• • Prevents further oral problems

A deep cleaning helps stop the periodontal infection and maintain healthy gums. If not eliminated, the infection will likely spread, increasing your risk of developing further oral issues like loose teeth, tooth loss, jawbone damage, poor bite, and certain cancers.

• • Prevents chronic health problems

If not eliminated, the periodontal infection can spread through the bloodstream to vital body organs like the heart, respiratory system, and brain, leading to serious and life-threatening conditions like diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune system, strokes, premature births, and more. Deep cleanings help stop periodontal infection, protecting your overall well-being.

• • Eliminates pain and discomfort

Untreated gum disease is associated with painful and unpleasant symptoms like bleeding, painful chewing, sore gums, receding gums, and bad breath. Scaling and root planing helps manage periodontal infection, relieving your symptoms. Once the gums have healed, you should be able to eat, brush, and floss without pain or difficulty.

• • Brighter smile

Over time, plaque and tartar buildup on teeth can cause them to appear yellow or dull. Dental scaling removes these deposits, giving your teeth a brighter and smoother appearance.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you suspect you might have gum disease, or would you like to learn more about scaling and root planing in Concord, NH? Contact Concord Dental Associates to book your appointment today.