If you have recently noticed constant bad breath or red, swollen, or receding gums, you could be a victim of gum disease, and it’s very important to treat it right away. Gum disease is a serious and dangerous condition that attacks your smile and ruins your oral health. There are many different kinds of treatments that can help with this condition, and one treatment that is available is scaling and root planing.
Why do I need this treatment?
Gum disease begins with the continuation of plaque growth on your smile and it could possibly end with bone deterioration and tooth loss if it is left untreated, which is why scaling and root planing is so beneficial. When you have gum disease, the plaque on your teeth begins to irritate your gums, making them move away from the teeth to create pockets. Then, bacteria, plaque, and other harmful particles gather in these pockets, infecting the area and altering your oral health. If these pockets are not cleaned on a regular basis, major problems could occur.
What is the process of scaling and root planing?
The process of this treatment involves two parts: the scaling and the root planing. The scaling involves your dentist removing the plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Dr. Swapna Nadikuda will make sure to clean every spot that could be harboring harmful particles. Then, she will start the root planing, which is a process that involves your dentist smoothing the surfaces of your tooth roots so the gums can reattach once again. This treatment might require a couple of visits to complete, and your dentist will more than likely give you a local anesthetic to help you through the appointment.
How should I care for my smile after treatment?
After care is very important, which is why we strongly recommend taking the medications or using the oral rinse that your doctor prescribes to you. You don’t want to take the chances of infecting the gum pockets once again. In addition to the prescribed medication, your dentist will also insert medication into the pockets during the treatment to promote healing. This will help relieve the swollen, tender, and bleeding gums you might experience after the treatment.
For more information about scaling and root planing, call NR Family Dentistry today at 513.229.7801 and talk to a member of our caring dental team. We are here to help you in any way we can!