What is Scale and Root Planing?

Most everyone has experienced having their teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or a hygienist. The plaque that forms on the teeth is removed manually with a hand-held tool called a scaler. Scaling and root planing maple grove minnesota is a continuation of this process below the gum line. Also called deep cleaning, everything else is the same. The removal of damaging plaque and tartar that are the source of gum disease.

We All have Plaque

Every single day we each create plaque on our teeth. The saliva, bacteria and proteins create a thin layer that sits on the teeth. This collects even more particles, acids and sugar all which attack the enamel of the teeth when not removed. That is also why it is so strongly recommended to brush your teeth twice a day and to floss at least once. To combat this constant buildup of plaque.

What Causes Gum Disease

This same bacteria and acid carrying plaque, when allowed to remain in contact with the soft tissue of the gums, will immediately create an infection. The gums will swell, become sore to the touch and unfortunately start to sag away from the teeth. The gums usually sit tight around the base of the crown but when sagging begins it creates pockets that only perpetuate the process and problem of trapping more unwanted tiny particles.

The Scale and Root Planing Process

A study several years ago found that around 47% of American adults have some form of periodontitis. That is mild, moderate or severe gum disease. In adults over the age of 65 the percentage jumps to over 70%. So, it is evident that plaque buildup on our teeth and roots is prevalent. The procedure is either with the manual scaler mentioned earlier of an ultrasonic device that has a vibrating tip to chip away the stubborn plaque and tartar. If the gums are tender a local anesthetic may be introduced to manage the discomfort. The scaling is done down the side of the tooth. The root planing addition goes even further making the tooth smooth again. This allows the gums to heal, close up around the tooth and also makes it difficult for the plaque to adhere again to the surface of the tooth.

Recovery and the Benefits of Scale and Root Planing

Depending on the condition of your gums at the time of the scaling and the amount of scaling necessary you can expect to experience sore gums for several days. An over the counter pain medication will neutralize the discomfort as the infection subsidizes. Moving forward good oral hygiene practices on your behalf will keep the gums healthy. Exercise regular brushing twice a day of both the teeth and the gums as well as flossing once a day. Combine this with seeing your dentist twice a year for scheduled examinations and x-rays and the wonderful cleaning and scaling the office provides and you can eliminate deep scaling and root planing from your future. Your teeth, your gums and your smile will be grateful.

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