In order to ensure that the teeth remain strong and healthy, it is important to maintain a strong foundation of healthy gums. Brushing and flossing are beneficial and help prevent plaque and tartar from building up on the teeth. However, despite good oral hygiene habits, it is possible for small amounts of plaque to be left along the gum line. This plaque can develop into tartar, a hard, sticky substance that is difficult to remove with at-home care. Periodontal care restores the health of the gums when bacteria and tartar buildup leads to gum disease, a condition that causes swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. Without treatment, gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss. Root planing and scaling is offered at our practice, serving Missouri City, TX and Richmond, TX, so we can restore the health of the gums and protect the health of the teeth.
Candidates for Root Planing and Scaling
Root planing and scaling is a periodontal treatment available to patients suffering from mild to moderate stages of gum disease. This treatment can improve gum health and eliminate the most common symptoms of periodontal disease. Patients with the following symptoms are most likely to be ideal candidates for root planing and scaling:
- Swelling
- Tooth pain/sensitivity
- Bleeding
- Red gums
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth/tooth loss
- Tender gums
- Halitosis
If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to see a dentist to determine if gum disease is present and if root planing and scaling is a suitable treatment.
The Treatment Procedure
Root planing and scaling is a minimally invasive treatment that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gum line in order to improve the health of the gums and eliminate symptoms of gum disease. During treatment, one of our experienced dentists will use a handheld dental scaler to scrape away tartar that has built up at and beneath the gum line. Local anesthetic can be used as needed to ensure patient comfort throughout treatment. The second part of treatment, root planing, is performed to discourage the future buildup of bacteria beneath the gum line. During this stage of treatment, a tool is used to file and smooth the roots of the teeth. By eliminating rough patches from the tooth roots, we make it more difficult for bacteria to cling to the teeth. In most cases, root planing and scaling treatment will be followed up by the use of an anti-bacterial rinse. This rinse further ensures that all bacteria and infection have been removed so that the gums are able to heal.
Schedule an Appointment
Strong healthy gums are the ideal foundation for healthy, beautiful teeth. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. To learn more about root planing and scaling at Fort Bend Dental, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists at your earliest convenience.
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