When it comes to fighting gum disease, action needs to be quick and effective. After all, the earlier you catch it, the greater the results. This is where scaling and root planing come in.
But what is it? And how long does it take? Here is everything you need to know.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment that clears out the buildup of bacteria in pockets underneath the gum line and then encourages them to reattach to the teeth by smoothing them out.
Scaling is the first part of the treatment. A special ultrasonic dental instrument is used to reach far underneath the gums to remove plaque and bacteria. This is followed up by root planing which smoothes out the areas that were just cleaned to protect them from further buildup. Sitting flat against the teeth makes them more likely to heal healthily.
Scaling and root planing are easy steps that can minimize the need for more significant periodontal treatment.
How Long Does Scaling and Root Planing Take?
The length of time it will take to get through this procedure will depend on how deep the pockets are and how much plaque there is to remove. While it may be able to be done in one visit, many patients find that their appointments are broken into two. This means that the dentist will do half of the mouth from start to finish at each sitting.
For each appointment, patients can expect the procedure to take a couple of hours. Dentists can assess to give an estimated timeframe before it commences.
Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?
While your dentist will let you know after an evaluation whether or not you could benefit from scaling and root planing, there are a few things you can look out for that may indicate this procedure could be helpful. These signs include:
- Receding gum line
- Tender, swollen, red gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Pus along the gumline between teeth
- Loose teeth
And, of course, any visible sign of periodontal pockets along the gumline should prompt a visit to your Montgomery, AL dentist right away.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
There are many benefits of scaling and root planing that you can take advantage of if you are battling gum disease, such as:
- The smooth surface makes it hard for bacteria and plaque to stick
- The pockets are no longer there to hold it, either
- Inflamed, swollen, and red gums are now healed
- Gums can reattach to the teeth
What’s more, your oral health will improve significantly — minimizing the many risks that come with periodontal disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does deep scaling hurt?
With the help of a local anesthetic, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. However, mild discomfort is common.
Is scaling and root planing worth it?
Because it can halt the progression of periodontal disease and protect your teeth and gums, most patients agree that scaling and root planing is worth it.
Learn More About Scaling and Root Planing
Are you ready to learn more about scaling and root planing? Are your gums showing signs of gum disease? If so, you don’t want to delay treatment. If you are in or around the Montgomery, Alabama area, see the dental team at SmileMakers and find out what can be done to restore your oral health — and protect your natural teeth.
Contact us today at 334-277-5498. Or, request an appointment online.