For Bethlehem residents suffering from periodontal disease or gingivitis, periodontal scaling and root planting may be a valid treatment option.
What are Scaling and Root Planing?
One of the biggest challenges in oral health is controlling the damage bacteria do to teeth. Hidden in pockets in the gums or on the rough surface of the tooth itself, bacteria can cause gums to become inflamed, infected and painful and healthy teeth to rot away. Deposits called calculus and plaque form on the teeth. Special cleaning by dentists can help clean out these dangerous pockets and save healthy teeth. These procedures are called scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing are not surgical. They may be recommended to prevent the onset of gingivitis or periodontal disease or to treat it once it happens. Scaling begins by removing calculus and plaque from the tooth. This involves the visible tooth as well as the root as accessed through pockets in the gums. Oral bacteria are then killed by irrigating these areas with an anti-bacterial solution.
The surface of the tooth may have a rough texture that harbors bacteria. Root planing is a process that smooths it out so that bacteria have fewer hiding spaces available. Antibiotics might be used along with this in the gums to encourage healing.
Why Is It Important to Have Scaling and Root Planing Done?
It is important to follow a recommendation for either of these procedures as both can prevent tooth loss and further infection throughout the body from bacteria entering the bloodstream. These can affect the heart and lungs, so it is essential to prevent infection from spreading. Oral health is part of the total picture of the body’s health and should not be neglected.
Speaking of pictures, tooth loss can put a real damper on saying cheese. Tooth loss is painful, inconvenient and a matter of confidence for many. When gum pockets fill with bacteria, an immune response will destroy teeth. Replacing them is a lengthy, expensive process. Scaling and root planing not only help save teeth, but they can also help with the look of teeth by removing plaque.
We, at Advanced Prosthodontics, want Bethlehem residents to consider scaling and root planing if they are concerned about gingivitis or periodontal disease. Taking care of oral health is a good way to take care of your whole self. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment for scaling or root planing call (610) 865-4222 today.