Sensitive gums, bleeding, and chronic bad breath can diminish self-confidence and keep you from showing off your smile. Unfortunately, leaving these common symptoms of gum disease untreated can further increase the risk of future tooth loss, not to mention pain and discomfort.
At Smile Shack, our team of dental professionals can complete periodontal procedures, such as scaling and root planing (SRP), designed to address gum disease.
Often, dental patients must have several scaling and root planing sessions before noticing significant improvements in gum health. When and how often you should have scaling and root planing is determined on an individual basis.
What is Scaling and Root Deplaning?
Regular brushing sometimes falls short of fully eliminating plaque below the gumline, leading to bleeding and swelling. Scaling and root planing are necessary to address these concerns and enable individuals with gum (periodontal) disease to regain their smile's vitality.
Scaling is the meticulous removal of undesired plaque and tartar from both the gumline and the periodontal pockets. Subsequently, root planing serves to reduce the chances of reinfection. By smoothing the tooth roots, this process facilitates proper gum reattachment to the teeth. It paves the way for improved overall oral health.
SRP involves using an ultrasonic scaling tool to meticulously remove dental plaque. Next, an irrigation process administers an antimicrobial agent, effectively reducing bacteria presence. Root planing is done next to thwart future bacterial formation.
When Should SRP Be Done?
If you have any of the following symptoms, it's time to see a dental professional for scaling and root planing:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing— one of the initial symptoms of plaque below the gumline.
- Swollen gums— gum swelling can make brushing and flossing uncomfortable. You may also observe other symptoms, such as gum redness and irritation.
- Gum recession— it might seem like your gums are shrinking or pulling away from the teeth. Gum recession could eventually cause tooth loss.
- Bone loss— frequently diagnosed through digital x-rays, this impacts not just your teeth but also the underlying jawbone.
Dental professionals recommend scaling and root planing typically twice a year or potentially more frequently based on the severity of your gum disease. Some patients may require visits every 3 to 4 months.
Your dentist can advise you when you need to return for another SRP. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing at home in between appointments, is also crucial.
Want to Learn More about Scaling and Root Planing? Contact Smile Shack Today
Bleeding gums, swelling, and gum recession are all signs of gum disease that shouldn't be ignored. If you are experiencing these symptoms or other concerning signs of dental problems, contact our office right away.
At Smile Shack, our dental professionals are here to support you in meeting your dental health goals. For some patients, this will mean regular SRP treatments in addition to regular dental checkups and routine at-home dental hygiene.
To learn more about our SRP and other dental hygiene treatments, contact Smile Shack today at 631-928-7500 or online.