Scaling & Root Planing
Florence, AL
 Periodontal scaling and root planing is a non-surgical dental procedure designed that treats periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. The treatment is often recommended when the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, progresses to the more advanced condition called periodontitis.
During root scaling, we use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces above and below the gumline. This meticulous cleaning eliminates the bacteria that causes inflammation and infection in the gums.
Following root scaling, root planing is performed to smooth the tooth roots. This prevents the accumulation of bacteria and promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
Root scaling and root planing stop the progression of gum disease, and create a clean and healthy environment for the gums to heal. These procedures are essential components of periodontal therapy. They contribute significantly to overall oral health by preventing further complications that come with advanced gum disease, such as tooth loss. Regular dental check ups, professional cleanings, and diligent oral hygiene practices are crucial to maintain the benefits of scaling and root planing long term.
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What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Periodontal scaling and root planing is a non-surgical dental procedure designed to treat periodontal gum disease, and restore oral health. The treatment is often recommended when gingivitis progresses into advanced periodontitis. During scaling, we remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces above and below the gumline.
This meticulous cleaning removes the bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the gums. Following scaling, root planing smooths the tooth roots. This prevents further accumulation of bacteria and promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth. Scaling and root planing halt the progression of gum disease and create a clean and healthy environment for the gums to heal. Along with great oral hygiene at home, this procedure, and regular check ups often prevent the return of gum disease.
When Should Scaling and Root Planing Be Done?
Root scaling and root planing is recommended by our team when a patient has moderate to advanced periodontal gum disease, which is also known as periodontitis.
Common symptoms are red and swollen gums, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets contain harmful bacteria that cause the deterioration of the supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can progress to a stage where teeth become loose and mobile, followed by tooth loss. We often recommend root scaling and root planing as a preventative measure for patients with a history of gum disease, and those with risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, or genetics.
Regular dental examinations are vital to prevent periodontal gum disease. They allow for early detection, and enable us to intervene quickly with periodontal scaling and root planing. This stops the progression of gum disease and restores oral health. In addition, it is crucial for patients to be proactive by keeping great oral hygiene habits, and to seek our professional dental advice if they notice any symptoms of gingivitis or gum disease. This way, we can determine if scaling and root planing is necessary for their individual oral health, and perform the procedure early on.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is the inflammation and infection of the gum tissues surrounding the teeth. It begins with gingivitis, where patients have red, swollen, sensitive gums. Patients with gingivitis may also experience bleeding during brushing or flossing. When gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses into periodontitis, which is a more severe form of the disease.
Periodontitis involves the formation of pockets of bacteria between the teeth and gums. This leads to the loss of bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. If left untreated for long enough, teeth become loose and mobile and the last stage is tooth loss.
Some common risk factors for periodontal disease are poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, and genetics. Besides the obvious impact on oral health, research has linked periodontal disease to other conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Regular dental check-ups, diligent oral hygiene practices, and timely intervention through procedures like periodontal scaling and root planing are essential to prevent and manage periodontal disease as quickly as possible. Early intervention preserves the teeth and overall health.
Scaling and Root Planing FAQ's
Scaling and root planing, often recommended for treating gum disease, always raises questions for patients considering the procedure. We encourage all of our patients to communicate all of their questions so we can put their concerns at ease, and they know exactly what to expect. If you have a question, or would like to make an appointment, please call the Singing River Dentistry team at 256-712-3549.
How Long Does Scaling and Root Planing Take?
On average, both parts of the procedure take a total of one to two hours. Some patients choose to have the procedure split up into 2 sessions, with half of the mouth scaled and root planed at each appointment. This allows for a shorter duration, but requires two visits.
Does Scaling and Root Planing Hurt?
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the treated area before the procedure. Some patients experience mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this can be managed with over the counter pain relievers.
How Often Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
The need for a root scaling and root planing procedure depends on the severity of gum disease and individual oral health. In some cases, periodontal disease is kept from returning with diligent at-home brushing and flossing paired with regular check ups with our team. But some cases require the procedure be performed as periodontal disease returns. It depends on the individual case.
What to Eat After Scaling and Root Planing
For 24 to 48 hours, we recommend that patients only consume soft, bland foods, and liquids. Soups, smoothies, cooked oatmeal, applesauce, rice, thoroughly cooked vegetables, et cetera. Gums are often sensitive after the procedure. Spices may irritate the already sensitive gums, and hard foods may poke or scrape them. Mashed potatoes are a better choice than potato chips immediately following scaling and root planing.
Schedule Today!
If you are considering Scaling & Root Planing, please call us at 256-712-3549 to schedule a consultation. Our team here at Singing River Dentistry is happy to help!
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