Routine dental cleanings are one of the most important things you can do to protect your oral health from common issues like cavities and gum disease. However, the reality is that many people don’t keep up with their routine dental exams and cleanings (the recommendation is every six months for most people).
If you have extensive plaque or tartar buildup, scaling and root planing may be necessary to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums and prevent gum disease from progressing.
At 2K Dental, our dentists offer a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services from our convenient locations in Parma, Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Cleveland, and Aurora, Ohio.
When plaque and tartar build up between your teeth and under your gums, pockets can form that cause your gums to recede or partially detach. This increases your risk for developing advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
A scaling and root planing procedure is also known as a deep cleaning because it covers more than a standard dental cleaning.
The scaling portion is the deep clean stage, where any accumulated plaque and tartar are removed from the tooth’s surface and above and below the gum line.
The root planing portion helps the gums reattach to your teeth, where they’ve receded and formed pockets.
Depending on the extent of damage and your circumstances, scaling and root planing may require more than one appointment. Local anesthesia helps to minimize pressure and discomfort during the procedure.
Some people experience lingering pain and sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. If you have an infection, you may need medication to help your gums heal.
A common reason why people need a scaling and root planing procedure is skipping routine dental exams and cleanings.
Even if you don’t notice any changes to your gums or experience any noticeable symptoms, you can have plaque and tartar buildup and pockets that aren’t visible to the eye.
If it’s been more than six months since your last dental visit, schedule an exam as soon as possible. Like other health problems, gum disease is most treatable when caught early. As it progresses, the damage to your gums can’t be reversed, but it can be treated.
In addition to regular dental exams, the best thing you can do for your oral health is to practice optimal oral hygiene, eat a healthy diet, avoid tobacco use, and drink enough water.
Remember, it’s never too late to take control of your oral health.
For more information about gum disease prevention and treatment, contact 2K Dental today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Parma, Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Cleveland, and Aurora, Ohio.
