Scaling and root planing is a comprehensive deep cleaning that eliminates bacteria and tartar that accumulate around the tooth roots. You could be a good candidate for scaling and root planing if you have moderate to severe gum disease. The procedure can be helpful if you have sore or bleeding gums and effectively prevents tooth loss. Unlike regular dental cleaning, scaling and root planing reach deep within the gums. Contact Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry if you or your loved one requires high-quality scaling and root planing services. Our certified dentists have vast experience in all dental procedures, including deep cleaning.
Understanding Scaling And Root Planing
Your dentist can recommend that you undergo scaling and root planing to treat chronic gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This procedure is more in-depth than normal teeth cleaning. Scaling and root planing can require several dental visits. The dentist might also use local anesthesia to ensure patients are comfortable throughout the procedure. How long the procedure takes will depend on the extent of gum disease and whether you have receding gums. Deep cleaning is an outpatient procedure requiring only a short period to recover fully.
Candidates Of Scaling And Root Planing
If you have signs of chronic gum disease, you could be a candidate for scaling and root planing. The procedure can halt the progression of gum disease and keep your mouth healthy. When plaque accumulates around your teeth, the bacteria in it can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth. This can lead to pockets between the teeth and gums, further encouraging plaque accumulation. You cannot remove the plaque and bacteria in the gum pockets through brushing alone. With time, the plaque hardens and forms tartar, which is even more challenging to remove. It is essential to floss regularly, as flossing can remove food particles in areas that are hard to reach using a toothbrush.
If not addressed, chronic gum disease can lead to:
- Loose teeth
- Tooth loss
- Bone and tissue loss
- Shifting teeth
Around 42.7% of U.S. citizens above 30 years have some form of periodontal disease. Some of the leading causes of periodontal disease include the following:
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Aging
- Hormonal changes
- Family history
- Poor nutrition
- Other medical conditions
Other than deep pockets between the teeth and the gums, the other common symptoms of gum disease include the following:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Red, inflamed, and tender gums
- Changes in your bite
- A shift in the position of your permanent teeth
How To Prepare For A Scaling And Root Planing Appointment
You should prepare in advance to ensure a successful and hassle-free scaling and root planing treatment:
Schedule The Initial Consultation
Your dentist will want to examine your teeth and gums before recommending the procedure. During the initial consultation, the dentist will evaluate your overall oral health. The dentist will also look for signs of gum disease, including deep pockets around the teeth or bleeding gums. Sometimes, your dentist can recommend an X-ray to assess your bone health and determine the extent of plaque accumulation.
Scheduling the initial consultation enables the dentist to tailor a treatment plan suited to your unique needs. The dentist will also help you understand the treatment plan and what to expect.
Address Existing Medical Conditions
You should share your medical history with your dentist because certain conditions can affect your response to scaling and root planing treatment. Conditions like bleeding disorders, heart disease, or diabetes could make you an unsuitable candidate for scaling and root planing.
You should also disclose to the dentist any medication you are currently taking because this could interfere with blood clotting during the procedure. It is particularly important to disclose blood thinner medication. Disclosing this information enables the dentist to take the proper precautions when performing the procedure.
Rest Before The Treatment
You should also rest adequately before your dental appointment. Resting will help you feel relaxed and more prepared for the treatment. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing if you are feeling anxious.
Limit Your Food Intake Before The Procedure
Dentists often administer local anesthesia when performing scaling and root planing. However, you should still avoid heavy meals before treatment. Sometimes, the dentist can advise you not to eat for several hours before the procedure. You might have to fast for some time if the treatment requires sedation. Ideally, you should avoid eating for 1 to 2 hours before the treatment, and if sedation will be used, you should follow your dentist's instructions on fasting.
Plan Your Aftercare Recovery
After a scaling and root planing procedure, you can experience discomfort and sensitivity. You should plan for your post-treatment aftercare. For example, if the dentist will use sedation, you should plan for your ride home by having someone drive you home instead of driving yourself. You should also have some soft foods in close reach because, after treatment, you might experience discomfort and sensitivity and be unable to consume hard foods. You can also obtain over-the-counter medication to manage the pain. However, you should consult and follow your dentist's recommendation regarding pain medication.
Oral Health Care Essentials
Oral healthcare is important to enhance the healing process, especially after scaling and root planing. Your dentist can advise using an antimicrobial rinse or a special mouthwash to clean the treatment areas and keep them free from infection. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the treatment areas. You can also stock up on special floss and tools designed for people with gum disease.
Steps Followed During Scaling And Root Planing
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for your overall well-being. If you have gum disease, scaling and root planing are effective procedures for treating the condition and preventing its progression.
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar beneath your gum line. Dental professionals, usually dental hygienists, perform this comprehensive cleaning. It addresses the root cause of periodontal disease and prevents its progression.
Here is what to expect during scaling and root planing:
Initial Assessment
The treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment of your oral health. The dental hygienist or dentist examines your gums to determine the extent of gum disease. The dentist also measures the size of the gum pockets between your teeth and gums and looks for signs of infection or inflammation.
Local Anesthesia Administration
Dentists administer local anesthesia to ensure that patients are comfortable during treatment. Anesthesia numbs the gums and the mouth tissues. Scaling and root planing are painless, given the use of anesthesia.
Scaling
Scaling is the initial procedure involving specialized equipment to remove plaque and tartar. This process disrupts bacteria buildup, leading to gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
Root Planing
The dentist performs root planing after scaling. Root planing involves smoothing the roots' rough surfaces to remove bacteria. Smoothing also enables the gums to reattach to the root surfaces. Smooth roots deter bacterial growth and enhance gum healing.
Antimicrobial Rinse/Treatment
Sometimes, the dentist can apply an antimicrobial agent to the affected areas. Antimicrobial treatment reduces bacteria and enhances healing. This step is not mandatory, and whether the dentist performs it depends on the severity of the gum disease and the dentist's assessment.
Follow Up And Monitoring
After scaling and root planing, the dentist will provide you with post-treatment instructions, including home care recommendations. The dentist can also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor gum healing. During the follow-up appointment, the dentist will determine the effectiveness of the treatment and make the necessary adjustments to the care plan.
The Benefits Of Scaling And Root Planing
There are several advantages of scaling and root planing:
Eliminates Bad Breath
A common sign of bacterial plaque or tartar buildup is bad breath, also known as halitosis. Dental scaling and root planing can manage gum disease and eliminate its symptoms, including bad breath. You will enjoy a fresh breath and be more confident when interacting with people.
Eliminates Pain And Discomfort
Untreated gum disease is often associated with unpleasant and painful symptoms like bleeding, sore gums, receding gums, and painful chewing. Scaling and root planing can manage gum infections and relieve symptoms. You can brush, floss, and eat without discomfort when your gums are healed.
Prevents Chronic Health Problems
Periodontal infection can flow through your bloodstream to other crucial organs if not managed. The infection can reach the heart, brain, and respiratory system. This is associated with life-threatening conditions like a weakened immune system, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even cancer. Deep cleaning halts the progression of periodontal disease, safeguarding your overall health.
Prevents Tooth Loss
Gum disease can destroy the supporting tissue and the surrounding bone, leading to tooth loss. You can save your teeth through early intervention of scaling and root planing. The treatment can arrest the gum disease and prevent it from reaching a point where tooth extraction is inevitable.
Enhances Aesthetic Appeal
You might feel self-conscious and lose confidence when you have gum disease and deep pockets between your teeth and gums. You can bring back your bright smile and confidence by undergoing scaling and root planing. You will no longer avoid smiling when around people for fear that they might notice your gums.
The Disadvantages Of Scaling And Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are beneficial for overall gum disease management. However, the procedure can have some drawbacks, including the following:
Post-treatment Pain/Sensitivity
After treatment, you can experience mild to moderate pain in the treatment area. The discomfort can persist for several days following the procedure. You can also experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
Risk Of Infection
Scaling and root planing also pose a slight risk of infection because bacteria can enter your bloodstream during treatment. This could lead to an infection that can range from mild to extensive. Your dentist might recommend antibiotics before and after the procedure to eliminate the risk of infection if you have certain medical conditions.
Gum Recession
In some cases, scaling and root planing can lead to gum recession. If you have gum recession, your teeth will appear long, and you might also experience sensitivity.
Multiple Appointments
Deep cleaning is a thorough procedure that can call for several appointments to complete. You will require several dental visits, especially if your gum infection is severe. You must commit adequate time to the treatment, which can be inconvenient, especially if you have a busy schedule.
Cost Implications
Deep cleaning differs from regular/routine cleaning and is more costly. When undergoing this procedure, you must consider your budget. Most dental insurance covers the procedure since it is considered medically necessary.
Scaling And Root Planing FAQ
Below are the commonly asked questions about scaling and root planing:
Is Scaling And Root Planing Painful?
Scaling and root planing are not painful because the dentist administers local anesthesia before performing them. After the anesthesia wears off, you might experience mild sensitivity and discomfort. You can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication.
Can Scaling And Root Planing Be Performed In A Single Hospital Visit?
Sometimes, the dentist can complete the procedure in a single visit. However, multiple sessions are required if you have extensive gum disease. The treatment period varies depending on the teeth involved and the extent of periodontal disease.
How Soon Can I Resume Normal Activities After Scaling And Root Planing?
Typically, you can resume normal activities and your lifestyle immediately after treatment. However, you should avoid engaging in strenuous activities soon after treatment. You must also adhere to the post-treatment instructions given by your dentist. Some patients can experience mild side effects like swelling, mild bleeding, and sensitivity after scaling and root planing. These side effects are temporary; you can manage them by observing proper health and taking pain medication.
Can Scaling and Root Planing Save a Loose Tooth?
When combined with proper follow-up care, scaling and root planing can stabilize a loose tooth. However, the success of the treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of bone loss and the severity of gum disease.
Will Scaling and Root Planing Get Rid of Gum Disease?
Scaling and root planing are effective in addressing gum disease. However, the procedure might not eliminate all the traces of gum disease, especially if the disease is in its advanced stages. Continuous maintenance and regular dental checkups can enhance your long-term gum health.
Is Scaling and Root Planing Suitable for Everyone?
Usually, scaling and root planing are reserved for people with gum disease. However, the suitability of the treatment can vary depending on the extent of gum disease, your overall health, and your individual treatment needs. Your dentist will assess your dental condition and recommend the most suitable treatment.
Most people often wonder whether scaling and root planing can be performed on children. The treatment is reserved for adults and older adolescents with gum disease. Dentists recommend preventive measures and non-invasive treatments for children to maintain oral health. You should maintain a child's oral health from an early age for the best outcomes.
What Are The Alternatives To Scaling And Root Planing?
There are some alternatives to scaling and root planing. The ideal treatment depends on a patient's condition and its severity. The alternative treatments for gum disease include laser therapy, antibiotic therapy, and surgical intervention. The treatment will depend on a patient's needs and the dentist's recommendations.
Aftercare Tips For Scaling And Root Planing
If you are planning to undergo scaling and root planing, you must also plan on how to take care of your mouth after the procedure. Following the right aftercare tips will ensure no complications after the treatment. Some of the aftercare tips include the following:
Do Not Eat When Your Mouth Is Still Numb
The dentist will use local anesthesia when performing scaling and root planing for your comfort. When the treatment is complete, your mouth will still be numb. You should avoid eating until the numbness wears off to avoid the risk of biting your tongue.
Rinse With Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help your gums heal faster. Mix half a tablespoon of salt with warm water and swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds. You should repeat this procedure three times a day.
Do Not Smoke
You should avoid using tobacco products during the healing process. Tobacco properties can delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Do Not Eat Certain Foods
You should avoid certain foods until your gums are fully healed. For example, you should avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods, which can irritate your gums. Instead, you should eat soft foods that will not strain your gums.
Find An Experienced Los Angeles Dentist Near Me
You only have one set of teeth and should not risk losing them due to gum disease. Luckily, scaling and root planing can address gum disease at an early stage and prevent it from progressing. Go to a dentist with the expertise and tools to remove plaque and tartar from your gums. After treatment, you must observe proper oral healthcare practices to prevent gum disease from recurring. For scaling and root planing services that you can rely on, contact Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry. Call us at 310-361-2080 to speak to one of our dentists.
