Welcome to our blog series, which is all about scaling and root planing, an essential treatment for gum disease. Gum disease is a common condition that can affect your oral health and overall well-being.
At Morris Dental Solutions, we are committed to providing you with the information and care you need to keep your oral health in top shape. We aim to help you fight gum disease and keep your smile healthy and happy!
Whether you’re just starting to look into the treatment of gum disease or just looking for information, you’re in the right place. This first blog post will explain what gum disease is and why you shouldn’t ignore it. We’ll also give an overview of a non-surgical treatment called scaling and root planing.
As we move forward with the series, each new post will add to your knowledge and give you a complete picture of the entire process—from the initial treatment to aftercare and long-term oral health benefits. So, keep reading to learn how to maintain a healthy and bright smile!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It is typically caused by the buildup of dental plaque, a sticky film of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. When left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, which can lead to inflammation and infection in the gums.
Early detection can significantly enhance treatment outcomes. Here are the key symptoms to watch out for:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums during or after tooth brushing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums leading to the appearance of longer teeth
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down
Did You Know?
Gum disease is alarmingly prevalent, with studies indicating that around 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. This condition becomes even more common as people age, affecting over 70% of adults 65 years and older.
Gum disease is a condition that can cause inflammation and damage to the structures that support your teeth. It is crucial to address this condition as soon as possible to help maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of associated health issues. Scaling and root planing is an effective non-surgical periodontal treatment that can remove harmful plaque and tartar from your teeth, encourage gum healing, and prevent further disease progression.
Why Is Deep Cleaning Needed?
When plaque and tartar (Calculus) build up below the gum line, regular brushing and flossing may not be enough to remove them. This can cause inflammation and infection, which can cause periodontal pockets between the teeth and gum tissue that require deep cleaning. Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, one of the most common non-surgical procedures to treat periodontal disease.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surface and beneath the gums. It’s like a routine dental cleaning but goes deeper to remove buildup that can cause infection. Root planing is done to smooth out the tooth roots to help gums reattach to teeth and prevent further plaque buildup.
This dental procedure promotes gum reattachment by reducing pocket depth and eliminating bacteria. It offers a simpler recovery than surgical options and can be completed with minimal discomfort.
Why Non-Surgical Treatment?
If you’re looking for a treatment for gum disease but don’t want to undergo surgery, scaling and root planing is a great option. It’s a non-invasive treatment that can be performed in a single dental visit. It is also more affordable than surgical alternatives.
Scaling and root planing are especially useful for people in the early stages of gum disease or those who want a less invasive approach. By getting treatment early on, scaling and root planing help stop the progression of gum disease.
Don’t Let Gum Disease Get Worse
Ignoring gum disease can have severe consequences for your oral and overall health. Without intervention, the condition can rapidly progress. It can lead to more serious issues like advanced periodontal disease, which may result in tooth loss and can significantly impact your ability to chew and speak.
Gum disease can increase the risk of other health problems when left untreated. Research links periodontal disease to systemic health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, underlining the importance of prompt treatment.
Morris Dental Solutions – Prosthodontist in Buffalo Grove, IL
If you are suffering from gum disease, seek the help of a dentist who specializes in treating gum and supporting structures of the teeth.
Dr. Morris is a highly skilled prosthodontist specializing in scaling and root planing procedures. With an in-depth understanding of the complex relationship between the gums, bones, and teeth, he ensures optimal results during deep cleanings.
By choosing Dr. Morris for your scaling and root planing treatment, you are selecting a professional who can not only treat gum disease but also restore and maintain the function and appearance of your teeth post-treatment.
This comprehensive approach to dental health ensures that you receive immediate care to manage gum disease and long-term support to keep your smile healthy and functional.
If you are searching for a ‘top-rated prosthodontist near me’ or ‘scaling and root planing near me,’ we are here to help! Call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form.
Stay tuned for our next blog in the series: Scaling and Root Planing Procedure: What Patients Can Expect.