If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend scaling and root planing. This procedure is the gold standard for periodontal treatment. If the issue is not addressed, you face serious consequences ranging from tooth loss to an increased risk of heart disease. Here’s a closer look at how the process works.

How Scaling & Root Planing Are Done

Periodontal disease is caused by an infection of the gums. If not removed, bacterial plaque and tartar buildup cause the tissues that normally fit snugly around the base of the tooth to recede. Eventually, "pockets" form around teeth, causing them to come loose.

Scaling and root planing remove plaque and tartar to keep this from happening. First comes scaling. The dentist or oral hygienist removes buildup, either scraping it away manually or with an ultrasonic instrument with a vibrating metal tip.

This is followed by root planing—typically during the same appointment—in which the tooth roots are smoothed using an electric device. The process creates a clean surface, making it easier for gums to reattach themselves to the teeth. This decreases the risk of future pockets forming.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Your gums will be swollen and sensitive afterward, and some tenderness and bleeding are to be expected. Your dentist may prescribe medication to prevent infection as well as a mouth rinse or gel to clean the pockets. A followup appointment will determine if additional interventions are needed.

To decrease the odds of future gum issues, your dentist will create a tailor-made care plan for you to implement at home. This should include brushing twice per day and flossing every evening. Smokers are advised to quit, as this can increase the odds of getting gum disease.

Anderson Dental Group of Mooresville, NC, provides cutting-edge general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services, including scaling and root planing. Their friendly team believes in treating patients with respect, and you can expect a "no lecture zone" while still getting the information you need to maintain your oral health. By making sure you don’t dread the dentist, they encourage you to get proactive about caring for your teeth and gums. Learn more about the team online form or schedule an appointment with the dental office at (704) 663-3300.