Scaling and Root Planing in Oklahoma City, OK
Save Your Smile with a Deep Cleaning
Besides tooth decay, gum disease is the biggest threat to your oral health. The infection destroys the supporting structures of your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. It can also impact your general health as the bacteria from the infection enters your bloodstream.
Although gum disease is preventable with the right oral hygiene habits and care from your dentist, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of Americans have a form of it. If you’re among those whose oral health has been compromised by it, Dr. Isaacson can save your smile with gum disease treatment in Oklahoma City using scaling and root planing.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat moderate gum disease. It’s typically completed over multiple sessions, as each appointment focuses on a specific section of the mouth. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, our OKC dentist may recommend a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Scaling
Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gum line. It’s typically done using a handheld scaler or an ultrasonic instrument, which breaks up the plaque and tartar so that it can be effectively removed from the teeth. The scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gum line to reduce bacterial growth.
Root Planing
Root planing is the process of smoothing out the roots of your teeth to remove any rough spots or bacterial deposits that may have accumulated. It removes cementum and surface dentin that’s embedded with unwanted microorganisms and helps prevent the bacteria from sticking to the roots of your teeth and causing further damage in the future.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Those with gum disease that undergo a scaling and root planing treatment at Joe Isaacson Dental may experience the following favorable benefits:
- Reduces inflammation
- Prevents tooth loss
- Improves oral health
- Freshens breath
- Cost-effective treatment
To schedule an appointment with our dentist in Oklahoma City, call our dental office today at (405) 943-8575.
What to Expect After Treatment
After undergoing scaling and root planing, it’s normal for your gum tissue to be a bit tender or swollen for a few days. You may also have some tooth sensitivity, so you may want to avoid hot or cold foods and drinks until it subsides. While your gum tissue heals, you’ll need to maintain your oral hygiene routine, but be careful not to injure or irritate the healing tissue.
To ensure your gums stay healthy, OKC dentist, Dr. Isaacson, will recommend you attend more frequent dental appointments for periodontal maintenance. Having a professional dental cleaning once every 3 to 4 months will help prevent new buildup and reduce your risk of reinfection.
To best care for your oral health and teeth after the procedure, Dr. Isaacson recommends:
- Not eating until all local anesthetic has worn off
- Avoiding acidic or chewy foods, which can interrupt the healing process
- Avoiding foods that can get stuck in between your teeth, such as nuts or popcorn
- Taking your antibiotics as prescribed
- Rinsing your mouth with saltwater four to six times a day after the initial 24 hours of healing
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Isaacson has heard many questions from patients over the years when it comes to gum therapy. He’s always willing to break down why oral care practices matter to long-term oral health, when scaling and root planing treatment is needed, and what causes the need for gum therapy in the first place. If you have any questions about your next treatment for gum disease, feel free to read our informative FAQ section below. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to call our office directly!
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Scaling and root planing treatment is referred to as a “deep cleaning” because it reaches areas of the mouth that no at-home oral care routine or a standard professional cleaning can reach. With that said, every patient has their level of comfort and sensitivity during treatment. You’ll be provided with a local anesthetic where needed to ensure the best comfort possible.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
TScaling and root planing takes between two to four appointments to complete. The total length of treatment will depend on the individual’s severity of gum disease and inflammation levels. It’s important to give the gum tissue time to heal following a deep cleaning, which is why visits are spaced apart. Cleanings will likely be needed every three to four months to ensure the best possible outcome.
How do I prevent advanced gum disease moving forward?
The best way to prevent advanced gum disease is to maintain proper brushing and flossing habits at home. This includes brushing for at least two minutes twice a day and flossing at least once each day. You’ll also want to attend regular dental appointments at least twice a year.
Don’t Wait — Call Our Oklahoma City Dental Office Today
If you have red, swollen, or bleeding gums, don’t wait until it’s too late to save your smile. Your dentist in Oklahoma City, Dr. Isaacson, creates the personalized treatment plan you need to reinstate a healthy smile. Contact our OKC office today to schedule your consultation for scaling and root planing.