What To Expect From Scaling And Root Planing
Posted on: 8 March 2018
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When you visit a dentist for a checkup and cleaning, the dentist may take the time to examine and measure your gum lines. If the dentist finds pockets in your gums that are deeper than what they should be, it is most likely because you have gingivitis. Treating gingivitis is commonly done with a process called scaling and root planing, and here are a few things you should know about this procedure if your dentist recommends it.
What it involves
The process of scaling and root planing has two key purposes. The first is to remove the plaque found in between your gums and teeth. Plaque that is left on teeth tends to work down into these areas. If it remains there long enough, it will cause your gums to recede. Plaque contains bacteria that will also cause an infection when left untreated in these areas, and this is what gum disease is.
The process of scaling helps eliminate the plaque, but the other purpose of scaling and root planing is to smooth out the root surfaces of all the affected teeth. By smoothing out these areas of the teeth, the gums will have a better chance of healing and reattaching to the teeth.
How it will feel
Depending on how deep the pockets are between your teeth and gums, your dentist may complete the entire thing all at once or may divide it up between several appointments. The process of scaling and root planing is somewhat intense. It involves pushing back the gums to access the areas between the gums and teeth. After that, the dentist must scrape everything out of these areas so they are clean.
This procedure can be painful, especially for people who experience sensitivity with their teeth. Your dentist can give you numbing medication beforehand, though, or during the process if it is too painful for you.
What you may need to do afterwards
It will take some time for your gums to heal after having this done, and you will need to use caution with them when eating or brushing your teeth. You may also have to use a medicated mouthwash for several weeks or months afterwards. This mouthwash will help kill the bacteria in your mouth, and this will help your gums heal in a way that is healthy.
Scaling and root planing is a very common dental procedure, and it can help you obtain healthier gums if you currently have gingivitis. To learn more about gum disease or treatment options for gingivitis, contact your local dentist or check out websites like http://westlakesfamilydental.com/.