Scaling and root planing is more than just a dental procedure. It is a proactive approach towards reclaiming the health of your gums and teeth.
In our previous blog, Scaling and Root Planing Aftercare and Recovery, we shared five tips to help recover from this dental deep cleaning.
In our final post of the series, we will focus on the long-term benefits of scaling and root planing for oral health. We will explore the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as its benefits and risks.
How Effective Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Dental scaling and root planing has been proven to be an effective treatment for periodontal disease.
Dentists recommend this procedure as the gold standard in the treatment against the progression of gum disease.
According to a review, on average, scaling and root planing procedures reduce pocket depth (the space between the gumline and teeth) by 0.5 millimeters. This leads to improved periodontal health and decreased risk of tooth loss.
The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Gum disease not only threatens your smile but also your overall well-being. Here are some of the long-term benefits of the scaling and root planing procedure:
- Prevents tooth loss: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Deep cleanings remove bacterial plaque and tartar buildup from your gums to help prevent further damage to your teeth and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
- Reduce gum inflammation: Periodontal disease can cause your gums to recede, making your teeth look longer and possibly leading to tooth sensitivity. Periodontal treatment can help reverse the effects of severe gum disease, leaving you with healthy pink gums.
- Eliminate bad breath: Gum disease is a common cause of halitosis (bad breath). Cleaning the deep pockets around teeth can significantly improve breath by removing the odor-causing bacteria.
- Lower the risk of heart disease: Research suggests that people with periodontal disease carry a risk two to three times higher for experiencing serious cardiovascular incidents like heart attacks or strokes. By removing harmful bacteria, you’re protecting your oral health and potentially your heart health.
- Improve dental health: Removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth reduces the risk of tooth decay and cavities. It also helps to prevent more severe problems.
What Are the Risks?
The risks associated with scaling and root planing are minimal, especially when weighed against the benefits. While it is a safe procedure, there are some risks, such as:
- Sensitivity: After the procedure, your teeth and gums may feel sensitive and sore. This is normal and should subside within a few days.
- Infection: As with any dental procedure, there is a risk of infection. To prevent this, follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions carefully.
Any side effects should clear up within a couple of weeks after the procedure. If any of your symptoms persist or if you have any concerns, contact your dentist.
Key Takeaways From Our Scaling and Root Planing Series
As we wrap up our blog series, we wanted to review some of the specifics of scaling and root planing.
- Gum disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is usually caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.
- Signs of gum disease: Some common signs include red, swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
- Non-surgical treatment:
- Scaling: This is the process of removing dental plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth, especially below the gum line, using specialized ultrasonic dental instruments.
- Root Planing: A dental procedure that smooths the surfaces of tooth roots. This helps to remove infected tooth tissue and prevents bacteria from gathering in hard-to-reach places.
- Aftercare and recovery: Following proper aftercare instructions from your dentist is crucial for a successful recovery. This includes avoiding hard or crunchy foods, smoking and other tobacco products, and regular brushing and flossing.
- Long-term benefits: Deep dental cleaning has several long-term benefits. It can prevent tooth loss, reduce gum inflammation, eliminate bad breath, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve oral health.
- Prevent future gum disease: It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits to help prevent gum disease. Brush and floss regularly, eat a balanced diet, avoid tobacco products, and visit the dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings.
Morris Dental Solutions: Your Top Choice for Gum Disease Treatment in Buffalo Grove, IL
Thank you for reading our blog series! Through these blogs, we hope to have shown you that scaling and root planing is more than just a dental procedure, it’s a pathway to improved oral health and overall well-being.
At Morris Dental Solutions, we are committed to being your partner throughout your oral health journey. We’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions about periodontal treatments or about your dental health in general, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can achieve a healthier smile that lasts a lifetime.
If you are searching for a ‘dentist in Buffalo Grove, IL’ or the ‘top-rated prosthodontist near me,’ our experienced team, Dr. Morris, Dr. Spina, and Dr. Rosenbaum, are here to help. Call (847) 215-1511 to book your appointment or complete the online booking form.
