Planing and Scaling

Scaling and Root Planing

With millions of adults in the United States suffering from gum disease, more and more dental professionals are working to address and restore gum health every day. When gingivitis advances to periodontitis and is irreversible, deep scaling and root planing treatment can help reinstate the health of the gums. At Beyond Expectation Dental in Tempe, Arizona, we provide safe and effective gum disease therapy to enable our patients to enjoy good oral health.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a gum disease therapy that aims to remove the hardened plaque and tartar deposits from underneath the gum line and smoothens out the tooth root to encourage reattachment to the gum tissue.

Why Do You Need This Procedure?

When gums become inflamed, red, and bleed while brushing or flossing, this may often be an early sign of gingivitis. However, if any of the following symptoms are present, a scaling and root planing treatment will likely be necessary to prevent the problem from worsening:

• Gums that are receding
• Bad breath
• Difficulty chewing without experiencing discomfort
• Loosening or shifting teeth
• Plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth
• Gum pocket formations
• Significant inflammation
• Pimple-like sores near the infected area

The Scaling and Root Planing Process

During this process, Dr. David Acosta will use special dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar accumulation from beneath the gum line carefully. If necessary, we will use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Since each person’s gum pocket depth varies, the harmful bacterial pockets will have to be efficiently cleaned.

Once the scaling process is completed, the root planing will smooth out the tooth root, making sure all rough areas are removed so that infection cannot relapse.

Although the scaling and planing process can be time-consuming, it has the ability to restore gum health. If you are more prone to gum infections, it is vital to undergo regular dental and cleanings once every six months to make sure your gums are hale and healthy.

Is Scaling and Root Planing Uncomfortable?

Before your scaling and root planing procedure, Dr. David Acosta will administer local anesthesia to prevent any possible discomfort. Based on the severity of the periodontitis, the process may be completed in one session. You may experience some tenderness afterward. It will help if you maintain a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing every day. This will enable your gums to heal completely.

At our Beyond Expectation Dental office, we provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while transforming smiles. Visit our office at 1425 W Southern Ave #15, Tempe, AZ 85282, or call (480) 967-0660 and schedule an online appointment.