Periodontal “gum” disease is typically a chronic infection caused by bacteria that works its way under the gum line, destroying the gum and eventually the bone that supports the teeth. Because the bacteria can firmly attach to the tooth roots under the gum line, regular dental cleanings may be inadequate to resolve the infection. In these instances, root planing, commonly referred to as “deep cleanings”, becomes necessary.
Unfortunately, periodontal infections are usually silent, and can be present for many years, without any significant symptoms like pain. This is why regular visits to your dentist are important especially if other health problems are present, like heart problems or diabetes. However, subtle signs such as red or swollen gums, gums that bleed when brushed or flossed, chronic bad breath or loose teeth can alert you to the presence of gum disease and the need to see a periodontist.
Scaling and Root Planing
To effectively take care of periodontal disease, the initial treatment is typically scaling and root planing; this treatment exists to remove tartar at or below the gum line. Standard cleanings and polishes only deal with the plaque above the gum line, and these procedures aren’t effective on their own to truly treat gum disease.
“Scaling” is a necessary first step in the treatment process, and it clears the way for a deeper clean. “Root planing” involves cleaning plaque from below the gum line that is most often the culprits in periodontal disease. Local anesthetics are also used to numb the area for greater comfort. Scaling and root planing are a basic approach to effectively treating the disease and allowing the gums and surrounding bone to heal properly. Collectively, these methods represent the fundamentals of non-surgical periodontal therapy.
Once successfully completed, the scaling and root planing procedure should leave patients feeling little or no discomfort. After 6 weeks, the dentist will schedule an appointment to examine the patient’s response to the treatment. If the non-surgical therapy effectively eliminates the gum disease, the only further requirement will be periodic maintenance every 3-4 months. With simple scaling and ultrasonic cleaning, and some home care instructions, the gum disease will be a thing of the past.
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