Gum disease afflicts countless adults throughout the U.S., and many of these individuals do not even know that they have it. If caught while still in its early stage, gingivitis, the condition can be reversed with careful oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings. However, if the infection remains untreated for too long, it may require more complex care. With scaling and root planing in Sycamore, our
on-staff periodontist
can use this conservative procedure and effectively fight the spread of gum disease.
Contact our office
today if you are experiencing swelling, bleeding, and tenderness in your soft oral tissues.
How Do I Know If I Need Scaling and Root Planing?
Our in-house periodontist in Sycamore will need to perform a thorough examination using digital imaging (i.e., X-rays, etc.) to determine if you require scaling and root planing. Depending on the severity of the infection, it may be necessary to apply this method of treatment, particularly if the disease has progressed from gingivitis to periodontitis.
Here are some common signs that indicate scaling and root planing may be needed:
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Receding gums that cause teeth to appear longer than before
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Persistent bad breath
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Tender, inflamed, and bleeding gums (the discomfort may be at its worst during brushing and flossing)
How Does the Procedure Work?
Also referred to as deep cleaning, scaling and root planing require our team to begin by removing any accumulated plaque and tartar from the teeth and the gum pockets. This is known as scaling. Next, the process of root planing begins when we smooth out the roots of teeth, making it harder for bacteria to adhere to them and reinfect the area. This also encourages gum tissue to firmly reattach to teeth.
This process is often completed in one or two visits; however, if the gum disease in Sycamore is severe enough, a patient might need additional appointments. To ensure individuals are comfortable throughout treatment, local anesthesia and sedation can be administered.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Patients who receive scaling and root planing can expect great benefits, some of which include:
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Reducing the risk of future tooth loss
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Undergoing a conservative treatment option that addresses gum disease before it causes devastating damage
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Less irritation while eating once the gums fully heal
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Better oral and overall health, as the body will be less likely to experience many systemic issues correlated with gum disease (i.e., heart disease, diabetes, etc.)
