Have you been getting your professional teeth cleanings done twice a year? If so, you have experienced scaling, which is removing plaque and tartar from your gumline, along with polishing to remove stains and smooth out the surfaces of your teeth. Our preventative treatments are designed to keep your teeth and gums clean and in tip-top shape.

If, however, it’s been some time since you went for a dental cleaning, you may have developed gum disease (periodontal disease). In this case, you may require deep cleaning, a procedure known as scaling and root planing.

How Does Periodontal Disease Develop?

Plaque is a sticky film always forming on the teeth. If not removed, the bacteria it contains can cause gum inflammation and result in periodontal disease. Gingivitis is the mildest stage of gum disease and can be reversed with a professional cleaning and plaque removal, along with proper oral care at home.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. As plaque grows and spreads below the gum line, bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums and stimulate a chronic inflammatory response. Gums begins to detach from teeth, leaving spaces called pockets. You may notice some bleeding when brushing your teeth, and your gums may become red and swollen.

As gum disease progresses, the pockets deepen, resulting in bone loss, and potentially leading to tooth loss. The most common line of treatment to restore health to your gums is a deep cleaning, otherwise known as scaling and root planing.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

This non-surgical approach to treating and reversing periodontal disease starts with scaling, which is removing plaque and tartar above and below your gum line and making sure the pockets between your teeth are clean. Next is root planing, which involves smoothing out the rough areas on the roots of your teeth, to allow your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth.

Most patients do not require any further procedures other than periodontal maintenance. If, however, you suffer from advanced periodontitis, you may need additional treatments.

After Care

After your scaling and root planing, we may ask you to return more frequently for periodontal maintenance. We will clean your teeth, examine your gum tissue, and measure your pocket depth and gum recession. Our goal is to contain the periodontal disease and maintain your gum and bone health.

We also recommend meticulous oral care at home. Brush twice daily and floss once a day, and use antibacterial mouthwash daily. Keeping your mouth clean will help keep gum disease at bay.

Quality Dental Care Starts Here

Contact us at River Ranch Family Dentistry to learn more about scaling and root planing, as well as the preventative treatments we offer. Our highly experienced team is committed to keeping your smile healthy for a lifetime.