Scaling & Root Planing in Claremont, NH
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Scaling and root planing, better known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical therapy for treating gum disease. Gum disease is an often severe condition that is characterized by inflammation of the gum tissues.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is often brought on by compromised dental hygiene. In the right environment, harmful bacteria in your mouth can multiply and attack tissues below your gum line. When this happens, your gum tissues become severely infected, resulting in bad breath, loose teeth, swelling and reddening of gums, and even bleeding. If you’re showing these symptoms, you may be suffering from gum disease. Our dentist in Claremont, NH, will advise you on the best course of treatment during your appointment.
Minor to moderate cases of gum disease can be treated through scaling and root planing. For severe or advanced cases, surgery is often required.
What Happens During Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing involve deep cleaning, which is different from the prophylactic or preventive cleaning that happens during your regular, twice-yearly dental exams and cleaning. Scaling involves removing all plaque deposits on your teeth, including those above and below your gum line. For this process, we use a dental scaler. Plaque is a sticky material that is formed from bacterial activity in your mouth. Plaque is the main culprit behind dental caries (cavities) and gum disease. By eliminating plaque from your teeth, we get you started on the healing path.
Root planing involves smoothing the tooth roots. By removing the rough spots on the tooth, planing removes the hiding spots for harmful bacteria. Root planing also facilitates the easy re-attachment of the gums to the teeth.
During your visit, our dentist near you will advise on your treatment plan. Scaling and root planing requires multiple visits as we may need to work on your mouth in quadrants.
Scaling & Root Planing After-Care Instructions
Remember to observe the following after-care guidelines if you have undergone scaling and root planing treatment at our dental practice:
- Stay away from tobacco for at least three days.
- Until you’re sure healing is complete, keep away from hot and spicy foods, as well as alcohol.
- Use any prescription medications, e.g., antibiotics, as instructed by our dentist.
- On the first night after treatment, brush your teeth lightly with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use a mouth rinse as advised by our dentist.
Do you suspect you have gum disease? The sooner you get treatment for periodontal disease, the better your chances of avoiding long-term complications such as tooth loss. Contact Claremont Dental Group today if you’re interested in scaling and root planing in Claremont, NH.