If you’ve ever had gum disease, or if you’re experiencing it now, you know that it can be difficult to treat once it progresses. But when it is addressed in the early stages, simple non-surgical treatment is highly effective.
Scaling and root planing are procedures that work together to treat and manage gum disease, providing a minimally invasive solution. With early intervention, gum disease can be eliminated before any long term damage occurs.
Learn more about scaling and root planing in this guide to non-surgical gum disease treatment.
Defining Gum Disease
Periodontitis, or gum disease as it is more commonly known, is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. It is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth, a sticky film made up of food residue and bacteria. The longer plaque remains on the teeth without being brushed away or removed during routine dental cleanings, the harder it becomes to remove. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth, allowing plaque to settle below the gumline on the roots, which leads to further progression of the disease.
Stages of Gum Disease
- Gingivitis. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Symptoms include red, irritated gum tissue and mild bleeding.
- Early stage periodontitis. As gingivitis worsens it becomes a full-blown infection, which is called periodontitis. At this stage the gums begin to recede, leaving the roots exposed to plaque.
- Moderate periodontitis. Without treatment gum disease reaches a moderate level of severity, which leads to damage to the support structures and loose teeth.
- Advanced periodontitis. Once gum disease reaches the advanced stage the support structures for the teeth have deteriorated even further, resulting in more loose teeth and even tooth loss.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing are two procedures that are performed one after the other for the treatment of gum disease.
- Scaling: removal of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the teeth and roots below the gums. The gum tissue is gently pulled away from the teeth during this process (local anesthesia may be used for comfort).
- Root planing: smoothing the surface of the roots following scaling to encourage the gum tissue to reattach to the roots more firmly, eliminating pockets for plaque to form under the gums.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
- Non-invasive. Scaling and root planing offers a non-surgical option to treat gum disease that is non-invasive.
- Eliminate the source of the infection. The goal of scaling and root planing is to remove plaque and tartar that cause gum disease, which treats the infection at the source
- Prevents tooth loss. When scaling and root planing are performed at the right time, it can prevent tooth loss due to residual damage to the teeth’s support structures.
- Cost-effective. Non-surgical gum disease treatment costs less than surgical, which is why early treatment can save you money.
Preventing Gum Disease
Of course the best case scenario is to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. This can be done through:
- Good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.
- Routine dental cleanings. Go to the dentist twice a year for professional teeth cleanings and oral exams.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease, so it is best avoided for the benefit of your oral health.
When to Seek Treatment
If you notice any of the common signs and symptoms of gum disease, such as red and inflamed gums or blood when you brush your teeth, it may be time to seek professional treatment. For periodontitis, especially in moderate or advanced stages, it may be in your best interest to see a periodontist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease. Contact us at Medford Periodontics today to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing
How often do I need scaling and root planing?
In some cases you may need scaling and root planing on a more frequent schedule than regular dental cleanings. Every 2-3 months is the average frequency for these procedures to effectively manage gum disease.
Do I need anesthesia for this procedure?
Local anesthesia can help make the procedure more comfortable. It is usually recommended, but not required. Most patients choose to have anesthesia to prevent discomfort during scaling and root planing, especially because the gums are often inflamed due to infection.
Medford Periodontics, under the leadership of Dr. Ben Calem, provides a wide range of periodontal services including non-surgical and surgical treatments according to your needs. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.