Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling & Root Planing: Essential Dental Care for Gum Health

At Northwest Dental Specialists, Dr. Paola Rojas provides scaling and root planing services to combat gum disease and improve oral health. With advanced training in managing the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone, we offer effective treatments in Mt. Prospect to address periodontal disease and prevent further complications.

Understanding Gum Disease and Its Impact on Oral Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the gums that support and surround teeth. It’s primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, also known as calculus, which irritates the gum tissue and causes inflammation.

As gum disease progresses, pockets can form between the gums and teeth, creating spaces for bacteria to thrive. This can damage the gum tissue, cause bad breath, and even lead to bone loss in the bones that support the teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Gum Problems

Recognizing the early signs of gum problems is essential to preventing the progression of gum disease. The team at Northwest Dental Specialists can help with these symptoms with scaling and root planing.

• Bleeding gums
• Swollen or tender gums
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath
• Changes in your bite

Early detection and treatment are vital in managing gum disease and preventing further complications.

What is Scaling & Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, often called a “deep cleaning,” is a non-surgical dental procedure designed to treat gum disease and restore gum health. It involves removing plaque and tartar below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots (root planing) to encourage gum tissue reattachment and reduce pocket depth.

What Are The Benefits of Teeth Scaling?

Scaling and root planing provide numerous benefits, significantly improving oral health and overall well-being.

• Improves Gum Health: Removes harmful plaque and tartar buildup, reducing inflammation and preventing gum disease progression.
• Prevents Tooth Loss: Protects the teeth and supporting structures from damage caused by periodontal disease.
• Enhances Appearance: Eliminates surface stains and buildup, leaving your teeth looking cleaner and brighter.
• Reduces Bad Breath: Addresses bacteria and debris below the gumline, improving your breath.
• Supports Overall Health: Reduces the risk of systemic health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, linked to gum inflammation.

Removing harmful bacteria and plaque below the gum line creates a healthier foundation for restorative procedures at Northwest Dental Specialists, such as dental implants.

The Step-by-Step Process of Scaling & Root Planing

Understanding the scaling and root planing process can help ease dental anxiety.

Initial Dental Exam

Dr. Rojas will assess your oral health in our Mt. Prospect office and identify areas with large pockets of bacteria or tartar buildup. We may recommend scaling and root planing your whole mouth in one visit or focusing on one area at a time. The entire process often requires multiple dental visits, especially if you have large pockets or require treatment on several teeth.

Local Anesthetic

A local anesthetic is used to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Scaling

Plaque and tartar are removed from below the gumline using specialized tools like an ultrasonic scaler or ultrasonic instruments.

Root Planing

The teeth roots are smoothed to discourage future bacterial buildup and promote healing.

Aftercare

Antibiotics, a mouth rinse, and proper brushing and flossing are recommended to maintain the results.

What to Expect After Treatment

After scaling and root planing, you may experience temporary discomfort, mild swelling, or teeth sensitivity. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage these symptoms. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, and regular flossing are proper oral hygiene habits that support healing.

Take Control of Your Oral Health

Don’t let gum disease compromise your oral health. Dr. Rojas combines advanced techniques with compassionate care to help patients achieve optimal oral health.

Whether you have mild gingivitis or severe periodontitis, Northwest Dental Specialists offers scaling and root planing to help you regain healthy gums and prevent tooth loss. Call our Mt. Prospect, IL, office at (847) 398-0404 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile.