What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

When periodontal (gum) disease is diagnosed in the first phase, commonly referred to as gingivitis, it may be reversed with a thorough dental cleaning and enhanced oral hygiene routine; however, when the dental issue progresses to the second stage, referred to as periodontitis, Dr. Cassandra Montemayor recommends scaling and root planing (SRP) treatments. SRP is a nonsurgical periodontal disease option that gets rid of plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria from underneath your gum tissues. SRP will create a better environment for your gumline and halt the advancement of gum disease. When you exhibit symptoms of periodontal disease, schedule an appointment at Savannah Smiles Dental in Schertz, TX to learn more about scaling and root planing.

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What are the Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing?

There are many reasons dental patients in Schertz, TX turn to Savannah Smiles Dental for scaling and root planing treatments. Our trained team members understand the importance of addressing periodontal disease to prevent more serious issues such as tooth loss and jawbone deterioration. Here are the primary benefits of SRP:

  • Remove harmful plaque and bacteria
  • Reduce gum pocket depths
  • Maintain healthy gums and teeth
  • Improve oral health and hygiene overall
  • Reduce the risk of periodontal disease progression and tooth loss

What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing

Immediately after your SRP treatment, you may experience some swelling, tenderness, and even bleeding around the gums. These temporary side effects should dissipate quickly on their own, but our team may recommend using over-the-counter pain relievers and other at-home methods to help. Once you have fully healed from treatment, you should expect to experience a noticeable improvement in swelling, bleeding, bad breath, sensitivity, and the other symptoms of gum disease you may have had previously. With proper care and oral hygiene after SRP treatment, you can help maintain your dental and periodontal health over time.

Are You a Good Candidate for SRP?

Patients could be suitable candidates for scaling and root planing when they experience bloody or swollen gums, bad breath, gum recession, or various other indications of periodontal disease. When you come for your exam, our team will evaluate the regions dividing your teeth from the gums. If these pockets exceed 3 mm deep and scans show that there is bone loss, Dr. Montemayor can provide scaling and root planing. This periodontal disease therapy can lessen the depth of the gum pockets, which may allow you to manage your gums with simpler methods. Periodontal disease identified in the periodontitis phase can commonly be addressed with SRP treatments at Savannah Smiles Dental.

How Is Scaling and Root Planing Performed?

Scaling and root planing at our Schertz, TX facility is commonly offered in quadrants of your mouth over 1 – 4 appointments. To ensure that you stay at ease, Dr. Montemayor may numb the area by offering a local anesthetic. Sedation could also be given in the event that you feel nervous when receiving dental treatment. Once you are prepped, our team will use an ultrasonic tooth scaler and hand tools to delicately remove buildup and plaque from within your pockets. Your tooth root surfaces are then smoothed (planed) to lessen the regions where harmful bacteria can collect. Topical antibiotics may also be administered deep into the pockets to support dental health and stop bacterial growth.