Scaling and Root Planing – Plymouth, MA
Achieve a Clean, Disease-Free Mouth
Gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that can wreck an individual’s oral health and even threaten their overall health. If you have gum disease, it is imperative that you seek professional periodontal treatment. Depending on the extent of your condition, Dr. Aveni might recommend that you undergo scaling and root planing. On this page, you will learn more about scaling and root planing and how it may be able to benefit you.
Why Choose Aveni Dental Professionals for Scaling and Root Planing?
- 1Dentist with more than 40 years of experience
- 2Gentle, minimally invasive treatment
- 3Compassionate, friendly team
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is essentially a deep cleaning of the mouth. Its purpose is to remove harmful plaque and bacteria from the teeth, both above and below the gumline. Once the plaque is removed, the gum tissue will have an opportunity to heal.
How Do I Know if I Need Scaling and Root Planing?
If your gum disease is still in its early stage (known as gingivitis), it might be possible to reverse your condition with a regular professional cleaning and a few adjustments to your oral hygiene routine. However, if your gingivitis has progressed into periodontitis, the advanced form of gum disease, you may need scaling and root planing. That is because in periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. Dr. Aveni will have to clean the bacteria out those pockets before the gums can firmly reattach to the teeth.
Some signs that indicate you might need scaling and root planing include:
- Gum recession
- Gums that bleed easily when you brush
- Red, swollen gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Dental sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
How Does Scaling and Root Planing Work?
Scaling and root planing is a two-phase treatment. During scaling, we team scrapes plaque away from the teeth, both above and below the gumline. During root planing, we smooth out the roots of the teeth so it is more difficult for bacteria to cling to them.
Depending on the extent of the gum disease, scaling and root planing may take more than one appointment. You should be quite comfortable during the procedure thanks to anesthesia and our team’s gentle touch. After the treatment, some soreness is normal, but that should subside within a few days to a week.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Potential benefits of scaling and root planing include:
- It can stop and perhaps reverse gum disease
- It can prevent tooth loss and other complications that common result from advanced periodontitis
- It can make a smile more attractive by helping gums heal and regain their natural color
- It is minimally invasive
Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
The cost of your scaling and root planing will depend largely on how much of your mouth needs to be treated, as well as whether your insurance will cover part of the procedure’s cost. During your consultation, our team will provide you with a candid estimate for the price of your treatment and help you explore your payment options.
Would you like to learn more about scaling and root planing, or are you ready for a periodontal consultation? Contact our team today.