Scaling and Root Planing --- 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 are among those whose oral has been compromised by it, Dr. Isaacson can save your smile with gum disease treatment in Oklahoma City using scaling and root planing.
What are Scaling and Root Planing?
More commonly referred to as a deep cleaning, scaling and root planing are often the first course of action to stop gum disease in its tracks. The treatment actually involves two different procedures to clean the gingival pockets and smooth the root surfaces using special dental instruments. After the buildup is removed, it stops the spread of the infection while also allowing the gingival tissue to adhere to the teeth again.
How Can Scaling and Root Planing Help Me?
Gum disease is the result of tartar buildup near the gum line caused by poor oral hygiene habits that didn’t effectively remove plaque. The accumulation harbors bacteria, which irritates and infects the gum tissue. During the early stage of the disease (gingivitis) a deep cleaning removes the buildup to prevent irreversible complications, like tooth loss.
How are Scaling and Root Planing Performed?
A deep cleaning is a nonsurgical treatment that is completed in 1 or 2 appointments depending on your specific treatment plan. Dr. Isaacson may apply an anesthetic to minimize any sensitivity or discomfort you feel during the procedures.
First, scaling is performed, which uses a special dental tool to remove tartar and clean the gingival pockets. Then, another dental tool is used for the root planing, which smooths the root surfaces. This discourages future buildup while encouraging the gingival tissue to reattach to the teeth to seal out bacteria.
What Can I Expect After the Treatment?
After the procedures, 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, but be careful not to injure or irritate the healing tissue.
To ensure your gums stay healthy, Dr. Isaacson will recommend you have more frequent dental appointments for periodontal maintenance. By having a professional dental cleaning about every 3 to 4 months, it will prevent new buildup to reduce your risk of reinfection.
Schedule an Appointment 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 office today to schedule your consultation for scaling and root planing.
Scaling and Root Planing FAQ
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 standard professional cleaning can reach. With that said, every patient has their own level of comfort and sensitivity during treatment. We will make sure to provide local anesthetic where needed in order to ensure the best comfort possible. We also offer multiple levels of sedation dentistry if necessary.
How long does treatment typically take?
The length of your treatment can vary depending on the severity of your gum disease and inflammation. For this reason, you can expect your gum therapy to take between two and four visits to complete. It’s very important to give the gum tissue time to heal following a deep cleaning, which is why we need to space your visits apart. Cleanings will likely be needed every three to four months, rather than every six months, to ensure the best outcome possible.
Do I need scaling and root planing performed?
Gum disease can be difficult to keep track on your own, largely because the effects of gum disease don’t become apparent until it’s already started to cause damage. This is why routine dental exams are so important to long-term oral health. However, if your gums are any color other than light pink (i.e. dark red or purple), call our office right away to have them examined. Furthermore, if your gums feel sensitive to the touch or they appear to be receding, get in touch with us as soon as you can.
What should I expect after treatment is completed?
While Dr. Isaacson will take the time to explain aftercare steps following your gum therapy, there are important tips to keep in mind. These include:
- 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
How do I prevent advanced gum disease moving forward?
In order to prevent your gum disease from coming back, it’s crucial that you practice strict brushing and flossing at home. This includes brushing for at least two minutes at a time twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Make sure to maintain routine dental appointments at our office as well for exams and cleanings.