Scaling and root planing or a deep dental cleaning may seem intimidating, but it’s an important part of maintaining your oral health. Sometimes a routine dental cleaning is not enough to remove the plaque and tartar, (Calculus) buildup that can cause gum disease. Scaling and root planing goes deeper than a regular cleaning, ensuring that your gums and teeth are healthy and free of infection.
We aim to promote healthy teeth and gums for life at Morris Dental Solutions. Scaling and root planing is an important procedure to help keep your oral health in top condition. We know that going to the dentist can be challenging for some, so we will do our utmost to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
If you are looking for scaling and root planing in Buffalo Grove, IL, or deep dental cleaning in Buffalo Grove, IL, see the professionals at Morris Dental Solutions. To schedule an appointment, call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form.
If you are looking for a dentist near me or dentist Buffalo Grove, visit Morris Dental Solutions to see why we are the best dentists in Buffalo Grove. We look forward to helping you with your beautiful smile!
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is an in-depth cleaning that can help to get rid of plaque and calculus or tartar buildup. Plaque is made up of bacteria, food particles, and other debris that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar (calculus), on the other hand, is the hardened form of plaque that has attached itself to the tooth’s surface and can only be removed with professional dental instruments.
When Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?
Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing if they detect any signs of gum disease (periodontitis), such as inflammation in the gum tissue, bleeding gums, or pockets between the teeth and gums where plaque has collected. Scaling and root planing can help to remove the tartar buildup that has caused the gum disease, allowing your gums to heal. If periodontitis is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
The Procedure
Before the procedure, we will discuss your medical history and perform a dental X-ray to have a clear picture of the most affected areas. We will measure your gums to determine the depth of your gum pockets, which will help us plan the procedure.
We will then begin by scaling your teeth, which is done using special dental instruments to remove plaque and calculus buildup from above and deeper below the gum line. Ultrasonic scaling tools may also be used, which use vibrations to loosen the plaque and tartar buildup and make it easier to remove.
Next, the root planing procedure is done to smooth out any rough spots on the root surface of your teeth where the plaque can attach itself. This makes it harder for bacteria to collect in the periodontal pockets and cause gum disease again in the future.
After the procedure, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or an antimicrobial mouthwash to help fight infection and speed up healing. You will also be asked to come back for a follow-up appointment to check your healing progress and gum health.
What To Expect After the Procedure
As with other dental procedures, you may experience some soreness in your gums, so avoiding hot, crunchy, hard, acidic, and sticky foods is best. To help with this sensitivity, you should brush your teeth with toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth. It is also normal to have some bleeding when brushing; however, this should not last long.
Additionally, it is recommended to wait one week before flossing the area to prevent further irritation of the gums. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any prolonged bleeding or pain after the procedure. Following these steps will ensure you get the most out of your deep cleaning and maintain healthy oral hygiene.
Does It Hurt?
Overall, most people don’t find the procedure too painful and can handle it without additional numbing agents. However, individuals with particularly deep pockets may experience more pain than others due to the increased pressure on their teeth. Similarly, those with sensitive teeth may be more uncomfortable during the process. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic that will numb the area around your gum so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems, so it is important to take steps to prevent it from developing in the first place. Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are essential for the early detection of any signs of gum disease. A good home care routine will prevent gum disease and help fight against gum recession and chronic bad breath.
Here are a few tips to prevent periodontal disease:
- Brush with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. This practice will help remove plaque and bacteria that can cause inflammation and infection in the gums.
- Replace your toothbrush when the bristles are worn out.
- Floss daily. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles between teeth, which can help reduce the risk of gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary foods. A healthy diet will reduce bad bacteria in the mouth and improve oral health.
Summary
- Scaling and root planing is an in-depth cleaning that can help to get rid of plaque and calculus buildup.
- Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing if they detect any signs of gum disease (periodontitis), such as inflammation in the gum tissue, bleeding gums, or pockets between the teeth and gums where plaque has collected.
- Procedure:
- X-rays are taken.
- Scaling- removes plaque and tartar (Calculus) buildup from above and deeper below the gum line.
- Root planing- smooth out any rough spots on the root surface of your teeth where the plaque can attach itself.
- You may experience some soreness in your gums. Avoid hot, crunchy, hard, acidic, and sticky foods.
- Tips to prevent periodontal disease:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Replace your toothbrush when the bristles are worn
- Floss daily
- Eat a healthy diet
Scaling and Root Planing In Buffalo Grove
If you suffer from gum disease, don’t wait – contact Morris Dental Solutions today to learn more about scaling and root planing. Our experienced dentists and hygienists can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health and recommend preventive measures to help keep your teeth and gums in great condition.
We are here to help you achieve healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime of smiles! If you are looking for scaling and root planing in Buffalo Grove, IL, or deep dental cleaning in Buffalo Grove, IL, schedule an appointment with the professionals at Morris Dental Solutions. We also proudly serve the communities of Barrington, Highland Park, and Arlington Heights,
To schedule an appointment, call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to helping you with your beautiful smile.
Call UsScaling and Root Planing FAQ
The frequency will vary depending on the severity of your gum disease and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Scaling and root planing may need to be repeated periodically for patients with pocket depths that do not return to normal or have milder levels of periodontal disease. If your condition is more advanced, it may be necessary to have the procedure done more often or you may need to be referred to a periodontist for additional therapy.
Yes, scaling and root planing is necessary to treat gum disease. It helps remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that build up between the teeth and gums. Removing these deposits can help reduce inflammation, infection, and further damage to your oral health.
No, scaling and root planing cannot be done at home. It is a procedure that must be done by a certified dental professional as it requires special tools and techniques that are not available to the public.
No, you do not need anesthesia for this procedure. Most people find it comfortable enough to do without sedation. However, your dentist may offer you a local anesthetic to numb the area around your gum so that you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
