PERIODONTAL SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
Preventing And Treating Gum Disease In Valencia, CA
Periodontal scaling functions as a “deep clean” and is longer and more intensive than a typical cleaning, as it involves going below the gum line to remove plaque at the root. However, periodontal scaling is an important treatment that can save your teeth if you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease. Periodontal scaling is typically followed by root planing, which involves smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, describes the infection and inflammation of the gums as a result of plaque, tartar and bacteria buildup. Gum disease is very common in the United States. According to the CDC, 42.7% of Americans age 30 or older and 70.1% of adults age 65 or older have some form of gum disease. Gum disease is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene over time, but can also be caused by tobacco use, certain medications, hormonal changes and more. Left untreated, gum disease can break down bone and lead to tooth loss.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE?
One of the first stages of gum disease is gingivitis. During the gingivitis stage, patients may notice some gum inflammation or bleeding when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can be reversed with proper oral hygiene, such as thoroughly brushing teeth for two minutes, twice a day, flossing and using mouthwash. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease. Symptoms of gum disease include:
Unfortunately, once gingivitis has progressed to periodontal disease, there is no definitive cure. However, with regular dental cleanings, periodontal scaling and excellent oral hygiene, you can inhibit further complications and tooth loss.
HOW PERIODONTAL SCALING AND ROOT PLANING CAN HELP GUM DISEASE
If your dentist at Go Dental in Valencia, CA determines that you have gum disease, periodontal scaling and root planing can be helpful in removing tartar from under the gum line and preventing further complications. During periodontal scaling and root planing, a member of our team will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the gums. Then, they will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth’s surface, in between the teeth, under the gum line and in the periodontal pocket. Once tartar has been removed, our team will then smooth the surface of the tooth’s root to allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, call Go Dental in Valencia, CA at 661-257-0880 or fill out our online appointment request form. Our team can perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums and determine if you have gum disease. If your dentist does find evidence of gum disease, we can schedule regular periodontal scaling and root planing to prevent further dental issues and keep your smile as healthy as possible.
