Teeth require a great deal of attention, especially if you want to keep them healthy and looking their best. Unfortunately, some people just scratch the surface when it comes to teeth cleaning.
When is Scaling & Root Planing Necessary?
Bacteria grows when tartar and plaque accumulate on the teeth. Which can lead to gingivitis and other dental issues. This is where dental scaling and root planing is needed.
Deep scaling and root planing is often the chosen course of treatment for addressing periodontal (gum) disease. The periodontal scaling treatment removes tartar and plaque and precipitates improved healing of the gums.
Treatment
Our team of dental specialists identifies any unhealthy condition of your gums (periodontal disease). They evaluate the gums and recommend a treatment plan which may include deep scaling, root planing, and continuing periodontal therapy to remove plaque and bacteria from under your gums. The periodontal scaling treatment eradicates the deposits from tooth and root surfaces, and planing smooths the surfaces to allow gums to heal properly around the cleaned teeth.
If the periodontal disease goes untreated, the bacteria below the gum line can cause permanent damage to the gums, teeth, bones and connective tissue. This could lead to adult tooth loss.
Prevention
One of the best ways to help prevent periodontal disease is to schedule routine examinations and cleanings with Stevenson Dental Care. Call us today to schedule a cleaning or evaluation.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is a disease of the mouth that results from layers of bacterial build-up on the teeth. Gingivitis treatment is imperative as the disease can develop into a secondary condition known as periodontitis, which can cause teeth to fall out. According to research, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Treatment can effectively combat the disease, but first a diagnosis must be made.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
Unfortunately, some patients are not even aware they have gingivitis as the symptoms can vary in severity. Symptoms of gingivitis that warrant gum infection and disease treatment include:
- Red or purple gums
- Soft gum tissue
- Receding gums
- Pain or tenderness in gums
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Bad breath
Gingivitis is usually the result of plaque and tartar build-up, which causes gum irritation. Poor dental hygiene such as not brushing or flossing effectively can exacerbate the problem. Other contributing factors to gingivitis include hormone changes, genetics, smoking, medications, and diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
Gingivitis is easily diagnosed by a dental professional who looks for signs of the disease, as well as plaque in the oral cavity. X-rays are also used to detect signs of periodontitis.
Gingivitis Treatment
Before gingivitis does irreparable damage, it is important to receive the proper gingivitis treatment you need. Treatment of gingivitis includes scaling, root planing, tissue removal and flossing.
Stevenson Dental Care dentists don’t just treat gingivitis and other gum infections—we equip our patients with the tools to prevent it. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above.