Stopping Gum Disease With Root Scaling and Planing

Depending on the stage of your gum disease, there are various treatment options to choose from. The type of treatment will also depend on your overall health and how you responded to earlier treatments. Treatments for gum disease can range from noninvasive therapies to control the growth of bacteria to surgical procedures to restore supportive tissues. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Also known as periodontitis, this is a serious condition that damages the soft tissue of the gum. If you fail to seek treatment for the condition, it can destroy the bone supporting your teeth, leading to tooth loss. 

Gum disease is quite common; however, it is largely preventable. Poor oral hygiene is the usual cause of this condition. To improve your chances of treatment, you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss every day and go for regular dental checkups. These steps can also reduce your chances of developing periodontitis. 

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Healthy gums are usually pale pink and firm. They should also fit snugly around your teeth. The signs and symptoms of gum disease can include:
 

• Painful chewing.
   

• Puffy or swollen gums.
   

• Gums that tend to bleed easily.
   

• Pus between your gums and teeth.
   

• Gums that feel tender when you touch them.
   

• Purplish, dusky red, or bright red gums.
   

• Bad breath.
   

• Spitting out blood when flossing or brushing your teeth.
   

• Development of spaces between your teeth.
   

• Loose teeth or loss of teeth.
   

• Receding gums that make your teeth appear longer than normal.
   

Stopping Periodontitis With Root Planing and Scaling

One of the most effective ways to stop the progression of periodontitis is through root scaling and planing. This treatment involves the process of cleaning between the teeth and the gums down to the roots. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic.

Some dental hygienists and dentists also use an ultrasonic tool for scaling and planing. This tool is less uncomfortable than the typical scraping tool. However, not all dental cleanings require this deep cleaning tool. 

Scaling is the process of getting rid of all the plaque and tartar above and below your gum line. Your dentist will clean all the way down to the roots of your teeth. They will then start planing, which is the process of smoothing the roots of your teeth. This will help your gums reattach snugly to your teeth. Root scaling and planing may require several visits to complete.

After Care Tips

Following treatment, you may experience some pain for a day or two. Also, your teeth will be sensitive for up to a week. Your gums may feel tender and swollen, and they may also bleed. To expedite healing, control your pain, and prevent infection, your dentist may prescribe you mouth rinse or pills. They may also insert medication directly into the gum pockets. 

You need to make a follow-up appointment with your dentist to see how you are healing and determine the depth of your gum pockets. If they are deeper, you may need more treatment. 

To learn more about gum disease and how to address it, visit Castro Valley Dentistry at our office in Castro Valley, California. You can also call (510) 674-0900 to book an appointment today.