Scaling and Root Planing
Mesa, AZ
Taking proper care of your mouth is essential for preventing serious oral health issues, including gum disease. In order to maintain the health of your mouth, it is important to brush at least twice a day and floss daily. Along with a good home care routine, it is also essential that you have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined at least twice a year. By ignoring these important habits, you greatly increase your risk of developing gum disease (and other oral healthcare issues). Gum disease is a serious issue that does not go away on its own. At Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, we offer several treatments for gum disease, including scaling and root planing.
Gum Disease Progression
Gum disease is a progressive disease that can have dire consequences on the health of your mouth. When it begins, however, it is barely noticeable. Gum disease begins when oral bacteria and plaque (a sticky substance that accumulates on your teeth) build up. They both irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed. Symptoms of this early stage consist of red, swollen gums that may sometimes bleed when you brush or floss. Many times, these symptoms go ignored, and the disease progresses.
As gum disease worsens, your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, creating pockets. Bacteria fall into these pockets. There, they attack the periodontal ligaments (which are essential for helping to hold your teeth in place) and your jawbone. As time goes on, the pockets grow deeper, the gums begin to recede, and your teeth may become loose and even fall out.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is an essential procedure designed to deep clean your teeth. Prior to receiving this treatment, we conduct a thorough inspection of your mouth. We look at the condition of your teeth and gums, measure periodontal pockets, and take X-rays.
Before beginning scaling and root planing, a local anesthetic is administered, which will help to avoid any pain or discomfort that might be felt during the procedure. Scaling involves cleaning all surfaces of your teeth (including between the teeth), with special attention paid around, and just below, the gum line. We work to remove all buildup, including plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), bacteria, and other debris. Root planing is the smoothing of the tooth roots. We remove plaque, bacteria, and other toxins, creating a smooth surface on which new bacteria will have a hard time adhering. Once finished, an antimicrobial wash is used to kill any lingering bacteria.
The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing has a number of benefits. It is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that removes buildup and puts a stop to bacterial growth. Successful scaling and root planing works to remove the inflammation and irritation of your gums. With the irritation and inflammation gone, your gums can begin to heal, reforming their protective seal around your teeth once more.
Receiving prompt treatment for your gum disease can help to prevent the disease from worsening, and restore the health of your mouth. If you suspect that you have gum disease, contact Timothy H. Kindt, DDS today at (480) 939-5818 to schedule your consultation.
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