Treat Gum Disease with a Scaling and Root Planing Procedure
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment designed to address the symptoms of mild to moderate periodontal disease. At Czaplicki Family Dentistry in Milwaukee, WI, Drs. Don and Cathleen Czaplicki provide comprehensive periodontal care to treat gum disease and the associated symptoms. During treatment, a member of our team can remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smooth the dental roots to eliminate areas that may harbor bacteria. Also known as a deep cleaning, scaling and root planing can help prevent periodontal disease from advancing and causing irreversible damage to your smile.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is an umbrella term that refers to inflammation of the gum tissue caused by the bacteria in plaque and tartar. In early stages, gum disease manifests as gingivitis, though there are several more advanced forms of the condition. If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to the stage known as periodontitis. According to the American Dental Association, chronic periodontitis affects more than 40 percent of Americans over the age of 30.
Treating Periodontitis
While a professional cleaning can usually address gum disease when caught in its earliest stages, deep cleanings are necessary when the pockets between your gums and teeth become too pronounced. A professional deep cleaning consists of two parts: scaling and planing. During the first phase of treatment, we can administer a local anesthetic to make you as comfortable as possible. We will then use a specialized tool to remove hardened deposits of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Next, we will smooth rough areas on the roots of the teeth. These spots can trap bacteria, promoting the resurgence of gum disease.
Studies show that gum disease is linked to a variety of systemic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which is why it is crucial to treat periodontal issues before they spread.
Most dentists recommend limiting the procedure to one quadrant or half of the mouth in a single appointment. As a result, you may need to schedule two to four visits to complete the full treatment process.
Maintaining Your Results
After the procedure, your gums may be numb for a few hours due to the anesthetic. When feeling returns, your gums may feel tender or sore. This is normal and not cause for concern. To address discomfort, you may take over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
It is important to maintain a consistent oral health routine after scaling and planing. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once a day. This regimen should help your gums regain a firm, pink, healthy appearance. You will need to schedule regular dental and periodontal checkups so Dr. Czaplicki can monitor your oral health.
Early Diagnosis and Treatment
A July 2015 study demonstrated that scaling and root planing procedures can be beneficial for patients with periodontitis, improving the location of the gums in relation to the tooth. Since the early stages of periodontal disease are easier to treat and may even be reversible, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible after diagnosis. Unlike gingivitis and other early forms of the condition, advanced periodontitis often requires surgical intervention. Attending biannual dental exams is the best way to identify early warning signs of periodontal disease and preserve your oral health.
Protect Your Oral Health
Studies show that gum disease is linked to a variety of systemic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which is why it is crucial to treat periodontal issues before they spread. A scaling and root planing procedure at Czaplicki Family Dentistry can treat chronic periodontitis and restore the health and appearance of your smile. If you are concerned about the health of your gums, contact our office online or call (414) 427-9090 today to schedule an appointment and find out more about our periodontal care services.
