Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but serious condition that affects the gums and the surrounding tissues that support the teeth. It starts as gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque develops when sugars and starches in food interact with the bacteria in your mouth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Other factors that can contribute to gum disease include:

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for developing gum disease.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup.
Genetics: Some people are more prone to gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation can make gums more sensitive and susceptible to disease.
Chronic Conditions: Diseases like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease. Call us to learn more.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Common signs and symptoms of gum disease include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums
Loose or shifting teeth
Painful chewing

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment promptly to prevent the disease from progressing.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, often referred to as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below thegumline. This procedure is considered the gold standard for treating periodontal disease in its early stages and can help prevent the need for more invasive treatments.

The Purpose of Scaling and Root Planing

The primary goals of scaling and root planing are:

Eliminating Bacteria: Removing plaque and tartar that harbor harmful bacteria.
Reducing Inflammation: Reducing gum inflammation and promoting healing.
Preventing Disease Progression: Stopping the progression of gum disease and preventing further damage to the gums and supporting structures.

The Scaling and RootPlaning Procedure in Dunwoody, GA

At Brightworks Dentistry, we perform scaling and rootplaningwith the utmost care and precision to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

Initial Examination

Before the procedure, our dental professionals will conduct a thorough examination of your gums and teeth. This may include measuring the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth using a periodontal probe. Deeper pockets indicate more advanced gum disease and the need for scaling and root planing.

Anesthesia

To ensure your comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic is typically administered to numb the gums and surrounding areas. This helps to minimize discomfort during the deep cleaning process.

Scaling

The first step in the procedure is scaling. This involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gumline. Our dentists in Dunwoody, GAuse specialized tools, such as ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, to thoroughly clean the teeth and gum pockets. The ultrasonic scaler uses high-frequency vibrations to break up tartar, while the hand instruments are used to remove any remaining deposits.

Root Planing

Once the scaling is complete, the next step is rootplaning. This process involves smoothing out the roots of the teeth to remove any rough areas where bacteria can accumulate. Smoothing the roots also helps the gums reattach to the teeth, reducing the depth of the gum pockets and promoting healing.

Antimicrobial Treatment

In some cases, an antimicrobial agent may be applied to the gum pockets to kill any remaining bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. This can include topical antibiotics or antiseptic mouth rinses.

Post-Procedure Care

After the procedure, our team will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to promote healing and prevent any complications.

What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing in Dunwoody, GA

Recovery from scaling and root planing is generally straightforward, but it’s important to follow our aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

Immediate Aftercare

Gum Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some gum sensitivity, swelling, or mild discomfort after the procedure. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and by avoiding hot or spicy foods.
Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but be gentle around the treated areas. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and an antimicrobial mouthwash can help keep the area clean without causing irritation.
Diet: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the gums. Avoid crunchy or hard foods that could cause discomfort or damage the healing tissue.

Follow-Up Appointments

We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure that the gum pockets are reducing in size. During these visits, we may recommend additional cleanings or treatments to maintain the health of your gums.

Long-Term Care

Scaling and root planing are highly effective at treating gum disease, but it’s essential to maintain a good oral hygiene routine to prevent the disease from returning. This includes:

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Flossing daily to remove plaque between the teeth
Using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
Regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing offer numerous benefits for patients with gum disease:

Prevents Disease Progression: By removing the bacteria and tartar that cause gum disease, scaling and root planing help to prevent the progression of the disease and the potential for tooth loss.
Reduces Gum Inflammation: The procedure reduces inflammation, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
Improves Oral Hygiene: Scaling and root planing make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene by reducing the depth of gum pockets and eliminating areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Enhances Overall Health: Treating gum disease is not only important for oral health but also for overall health. Gum disease has been linked to various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. By addressing gum disease, you may reduce your risk of these health problems.
Restores Gum Appearance: The procedure can improve the appearance of your gums by reducing puffiness, redness, and bleeding, leading to a healthier and more attractive smile.

When is Scaling and Root Planing in Dunwoody, GA Necessary?

Scaling and root planing are typically recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe gum disease. If you have gum pockets that are deeper than 3 millimeters, experience bleeding gums, or have noticeable tartar buildup below the gumline, you may be a candidate for this procedure.

It’s also important to note that scaling and root planing can be beneficial as a preventive measure for those who are at high risk of developing gum disease, such as smokers, diabetics, and individuals with a family history of periodontal disease.

Conclusion

Scaling and rootplaningare essential treatments that helps in the fight against gum disease. At Brightworks Dentistry in Dunwoody, GA, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest level of care to ensure healthy gums and teeth for a lifetime. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to undergo scaling and root planing, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and restores your oral health.

At Brightworks Dentistry in Dunwoody, GA, we are proud to offer OraCare as part of our commitment to providing our patients with the best possible care. If you are interested in learning more about OraCare or would like to incorporate it into your oral care routine, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.

Schedule an appointment online or call us at (770) 203-0671 to consult your dentist at Brightworks Dentistry in Dunwoody, GA. Ask our Dunwoody dentist for more about cosmetic services; our team will be happy to answer and help.