Scale and Root Planing Risks

Relatively speaking, it’s almost a bigger risk to not have the scale and root planing in maple grove minnesota procedure if it is determined that you need it done. The actual risks after the procedure are minor in comparison.

Why would you need a Scale and Root Planing Procedure?

Every mouth has millions of bacteria daily. If you exercise good oral hygiene and brush twice a day you keep that bacteria to a minimal. If you do not and allow it to multiple it becomes a sticky substance on your teeth called plaque. Plaque attracts more sugar and acids of which immediately attack the enamel of your teeth resulting in a cavity. If the plaque gets below the gum line it will also immediately infect the soft tissue resulting in gum disease. Almost half of the adults in America has some form of gum disease. The only way to negate the disease and reverse it is to have the source of the problem removed and that is the plaque on your teeth below the surface.

The Scale and Root Planing Procedure

The process is an extension of having your teeth cleaned. With either a manual hand tool that scrapes and scales away the plaque or an ultrasonic instrument that has a vibrating head to chip away the plaque, the process is manual. If the plaque is bad a local anesthetic might be administered to numb the soft tissue and minimize discomfort. If the plaque is further down the tooth the process continues via root planing. The end objective is a surface with the plaque gone and smooth enough that it can’t readily stick again.

The Risks involved

As we opened, if you do not remove the plaque the bigger risk is for the gum disease, or periodontal disease, to get worse causing serious damage to both the soft tissue and the teeth. This can lead to loose teeth, bone loss and teeth falling out.

The risks that you might encounter are a discomfort or pain that worsens and does not diminish. The soft tissue may not heal as expected or you might even run a fever. You can expect to have some post-operative bleeding from the gums, some swelling and bruising and even an increase in sensitivity with your teeth for several days. Probably the most serious risk would the advancement of an infection.

The Benefits of the Scale and Root Planing Procedure

The benefits far outweigh the risks involved with the procedure. The risks mentioned above are mostly short term as your teeth and gums heal. Moving forward you have a healthy mouth. If you now exercise the suggestions of the health industry and brush well twice a day along with flossing, you can reduce the possibility of the plaque sitting on your teeth. If you also compliment that with two visits a year to your dentist for regular examinations, x-rays and professional teeth cleaning, then you are being proactive and maintaining the health of your mouth. Your teeth, your gums and your beautiful smile will be very appreciative.

More on Deep Teeth Cleaning :  What is Scale & Root Planing?