Scaling and Root Planing in Oswego, IL

Don’t Let Gum Disease Progress

Are you experiencing signs of early-stage gum disease, such as red gums, swelling, or bleeding? If so, our Oswego dentist at Downtown Dental and Implants can help. Don’t let gum disease progress into later stages and cause further issues, including tooth loss. Scaling and root planing are the gold standard treatments for preventing the progression of chronic periodontal disease. These teeth cleaning procedures help improve the pocket gap between teeth and gums, reduce the risk of tooth, bone, and tissue loss, and address the harmful effects caused by bacteria in plaque.

If you’re experiencing gum disease symptoms, contact our Oswego dentist today by calling (630) 554-1855 to schedule an appointment.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat periodontal disease. Chronic periodontal disease occurs when bacteria in plaque cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, resulting in large pockets developing between the teeth and gums. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar below the gum line and smoothes out the tooth root to prevent further bacterial growth. The scaling and root planing processes are performed together to improve oral health and prevent gum disease from progressing.

1. Scaling: Our dentist or dental hygienist uses a hand instrument or ultrasonic device to remove plaque and tartar from the crowns of the teeth and below the gum line.
2. Root planing: They’ll use a smooth instrument to smooth the root surfaces of the teeth. This helps the gums reattach to the teeth.

The Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing

For those showing signs of early-stage gum disease, scaling and root planing can provide the following benefits:

• Prevents gum disease from progressing into periodontitis
• Reduces the risk of tooth loss
• Eliminates bad breath
• Improves oral health
• Can save you money on future dental treatments
• Decreases gum bleeding
• Decreases inflammation and improves reattachment of gum tissue to teeth

When Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?

Scaling and root planing are necessary when there’s an excessive build-up of plaque and tartar that has caused gum inflammation, bleeding, and even bone loss. A deep cleaning may be recommended when:

• There’s moderate to severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis, and scaling and root planing are needed to treat chronic periodontal disease.
• There’s a significant amount of plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums.
• There’s bleeding, inflammation, and recession of the gums.
• Deep pockets between the teeth and gums have formed due to gum disease.
• Some loose teeth or teeth have shifted due to gum disease.

If you’re experiencing any of the above, please contact our dentist in Oswego today for an appointment.

How the Scaling and Root Planing Processes Work

The scaling and root planing procedure can be completed through the following steps:

1. Evaluation: Our dentist will evaluate the extent of gum disease through dental X-rays and measurements of the gum pockets.
2. Local Anesthetic: We’ll use a local anesthetic, or another form of dental sedation, to numb the area before starting the procedure. Multiple dental visits may be necessary to complete the scaling and root planing procedure effectively.
3. Scaling: Our dentist will use special tools to remove the plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. This is also known as dental scaling.
4. Root Planing: The tooth root can become rough due to uneven plaque and tartar buildup.

Scaling and Root Planing Aftercare

After your scaling and root planing procedure, you’ll want to take care of your oral health to ensure the gum disease doesn’t come back. Dr. Mohan may recommend doing the following:

• Follow a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
• Use an antibacterial mouth rinse as prescribed to prevent infection and aid healing.
• Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for a few days.
• Attend regular dental checkups to monitor your oral health.

Scaling and Root Planing Risks

Like any dental procedure, there are some risks patients should be aware of. Risks associated with deep cleanings include:

• Sensitivity: After scaling and root planing, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as sweet or sour foods. This usually subsides within a few days to a week.
• Gum Recession: In some cases, deep cleanings can cause the gums to recede, or pull away from the teeth. This can make the teeth appear longer and expose the tooth roots, which can be sensitive to cold temperatures.
• Infection: Dental scaling and root planing involve removing bacteria from the gums and teeth. However, in some cases, the procedure can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, which can potentially cause infections in other parts of the body.
• Pain: Some patients may experience discomfort or pain during and after a deep cleaning. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Periodontal Surgery: If the pockets surrounding the gum tissue do not improve or become deeper after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be necessary to treat severe cases of gum disease.

Reverse Your Periodontal Disease With Our Oswego Dentist

We can effectively treat your periodontal disease with a scaling and root planing treatment, which helps keep your teeth and gums healthy by preventing periodontal disease. This deep cleaning can help improve oral health and prevent tooth loss. If you suspect you have gum disease, seek prompt treatment from our dentist. Contact our dentist in Oswego at (630) 554-1855 to schedule your appointment today!