Healthy gums are important to your overall oral health. Often referred to as gingivitis, if this generative disease is left untreated, it will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. We understand the word gingivitis can strike panic in a patient’s mind. The reality is that the treatment is a simple deep cleaning performed right in our office.

What Scaling & Root Planning Can Do for You?

Scaling and root planning can be used both as a preventative measure and as a stand-alone treatment for a periodontitis sufferer. The objective of scaling & root planing is to remove etiologic agents that cause inflammation of the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus).

This is a non-surgical procedure that completely cleanses the periodontium and works very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate/severe periodontal disease. It provides for healthy gums, strengthening your oral health.

If deep gum pockets persist, we can also go through laser treatment or Arestin to remove infected tissue and bacteria; promoting gum health and reducing the risk of infection is a minimally invasive and highly effective option.

Why Would You Need Scaling & Root Planning?

Scaling and root planning have several important benefits:

Disease prevention: They remove bacteria, preventing the spread of periodontal infections to other parts of the body and reducing the risk of lung infections and heart disease.

Tooth protection: By addressing deep gum pockets, scaling, and root planning reduces the chances of periodontal disease and its destructive effects on gum and bone tissue, ultimately preventing tooth loss.

Aesthetic improvement: These procedures remove tartar, plaque, and superficial stains, enhancing the appearance of the teeth.

Fresher breath: Scaling and root planing help combat halitosis by eliminating food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

Overall, scaling and root planning play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing complications.

What is the Process of Scaling & Root Planning?

Scaling and root planing are performed based on the condition of your gums, tartar buildup, pocket depth, and the severity of periodontitis. A local anesthetic may be used for comfort. Special dental instruments, including an ultrasonic tool, are used for scaling to remove plaque and tartar from the crown and root surfaces of your teeth. This process may include an irrigation step to deliver antimicrobial agents below the gums, reducing oral bacteria. Root planing smooths the tooth roots to promote healing and prevent bacterial colonization. After the procedure, antibiotics may be applied to the gum pockets to aid healing. Your dentist or hygienist will evaluate the gum healing during your follow-up appointment. If the gum pockets remain deep, further treatments may be recommended.

Get Started on Healthy Gums Today!

Glendale Heights Family Dental offers consultations to thoroughly discuss your options and assist you in evaluating the pros and cons. Learn more about how you can benefit from periodontal scaling or other dental solutions. Call Glendale Heights Family Dental at (630) 866 – 6000 to schedule an appointment today!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is periodontal scaling?

Periodontal scaling is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dentist or hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline.

Q: How often should I undergo periodontal scaling?

The frequency of scaling depends on individual oral health needs, but it's typically recommended every six months to maintain healthy gums and prevent gum disease progression.

Q: How often should I undergo periodontal scaling?

The frequency of scaling depends on individual oral health needs, but it's typically recommended every six months to maintain healthy gums and prevent gum disease progression.

Q: What are the benefits of periodontal scaling?

Scaling removes calculus and bacteria, reducing inflammation, preventing gum disease progression, and promoting overall oral health.

Q: Is periodontal scaling painful or uncomfortable?

While some sensitivity or discomfort may occur during scaling, local anesthesia or sedation options can help minimize any potential discomfort.