Scaling and Root Planing for Gingivitis
If you don’t make the time to take care of your oral health, you put yourself at risk for developing complications that not only impact your oral health, but your overall health as well. Gum disease impacts over 64 million American adults on an annual basis. For those suffering from gum disease, which is an inflammatory condition that involves swollen and tender gums, a procedure called scaling and root planing. Our dentist in Wrigleyville is knowledgeable about periodontitis and can help get you back on the right track.
Dental Scaling
One of the most common ways to address gum disease is by dental scaling. Scaling is beneficial for minimizing built-up plaque and tartar that is along your gum line. While scaling is nonsurgical, it differs from standard dental cleanings.
There are two types of dental scaling instruments:
- Hand-held instruments: Dental scalers and a tool called a curette are used to manually remove plaque from the teeth. Our team relies on touch in order to pinpoint where the plaque and tartar is, as it is not visible to the naked eye.
- Ultrasonic instruments: These electric instruments utilize a vibrating metal tip that helps break away tartar and plaque. Using this tool is followed by using a water spray to help wash away loose plaque as well as to keep the instrument cool.
Will the Process Hurt?
Our dentist in Wrigleyville knows that many people have dental anxiety, especially if they know there might be pain involved. We will do everything in our power to make sure that you feel little discomfort throughout the entire process. Anesthesia will be used to ensure that pain is minimal, but you may feel sore throughout your gums for the next few days. Over time, your gums will regain a firm and healthy appearance.
Taking Precaution
It is important that you let your dentist in Wrigleyville know of any health problems that you have before the procedure is performed. This is due to the fact that the procedure can expose bacteria into the bloodstream, causing potential problems for those with heart problems, liver disease, or an overall compromised immune system.
Restoring your smile and creating healthy oral health habits for the future is important to your overall health. If you think you are in need of a scaling and root planing procedure to restore your smile, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Northalsted Dental Spa today to schedule an appointment.
