Scaling & Root Planing
Columbus OH
"Because we believe that great dentistry and great health affects your every smile, every conversation, every meal, and every kiss profoundly"
What Does the Scaling or Root Planing Procedure Entail?
After your dentist has performed a thorough examination, they may suggest a non surgical periodontal treatment option of either planing or scaling in order to stop periodontitis from developing any further.
What Is Scaling?
Scaling is a process whereby plaque and calculus that have attached to the surface of your teeth are removed. This process is specially focused along the root area of your teeth, right below the gum line.
What Is Root Planing?
Root planing is performed when surface dentin and cementum that has become embedded with tartar, toxins, and unwanted microorganisms needs to be removed. During this procedure, your dentist will smooth out the root of your tooth or teeth, which in turn promotes faster healing and also prevents future bacteria from developing.
Benefits of Treatment
There are many benefits that can accompany having non surgical periodontal treatment. One of the biggest benefits is that it can significantly help prevent diseases from developing. Research supports that unchecked bacteria that develops due to periodontal infections can travel through a person’s blood stream and eventually cause respiratory and heart issues to develop. By removing this bacteria through the scaling and root planing procedures, the likelihood of this occurring greatly diminishes.
Successful treatment also helps protect against tooth loss. The greater depth gum pockets reach, the greater the likelihood of a patient developing periodontal diseases, which in turn leads to greater tooth loss.
In addition to the improved health benefits, having a non surgical periodontal treatment like scaling and root planing will improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the mouth and has been known to reduce halitosis.
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Antibiotics
Your dentist may suggest the use or antibiotics as a form of non surgical peridontal treatment in an effort to slow down or eliminate any bacteria that can cause periodontitis to develop, if left untreated. Occasionally, your dentist may decide to place antibiotic fibers after a scaling or planing procedure to help control a possible infection and to facilitate the healing process. They may also recommend an antibacterial mouth rinse to help prevent, control, or eliminate the buildup of plaque.
Occlusal Adjustment
Occlusal Adjustment is a process that corrects a patient’s bite by evenly distributing and balancing the forces that are involved in biting, thereby preventing or limiting loose teeth, teeth that bite too hard, or shifting. This type of non surgical periodontal treatment also helps reduce looseness and will relieve pressure on the supporting bone structures and gums. This type of procedure has also been known to alleviate symptoms associated with TMJ.
Post Procedure Care
Depending upon what kind of non surgical periodontal treatment you have had performed, you may experience some sensitivity. If this is the case, it is a good idea to avoid eating any sharp foods or foods that may irritate your gums. Many people find soft foods like ice cream, soup, yogurt, and pudding are the easiest on your mouth following the procedure. It is also a good idea to be gentle when brushing your teeth. If you take these precautions, your gums should heal after a few days, unless your procedure was performed with a scalpel, in which case you will likely need to have a follow up appointment.
Once you have fully healed from your procedure, it will no longer be necessary to restrict your diet or eating habits, although it is important that you continue to practice good oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day and continue scheduling regular checkups every six months. If you follow these good practices, your teeth will continue to be healthy and strong.
Associated Costs
Prior to scheduling the procedure, your dentist will review your treatment options with you, and then our staff will be happy to discuss the fees associated with having the procedure.
Please contact us to see what options are available. We are committed to helping you receive the dental care you need in a manner that fits your budget.