If you have been informed of the serious and long-lasting consequences of gum disease, then you would probably expect the treatments to be very invasive and require long recoveries. While some treatments have to be done surgically, our professionals at Willamette Valley Periodontics offer a tested and proven non-surgical treatment for gum disease.This treatment is known as scaling and root planing. It is a great option for mild to moderate cases of gum disease and treats your symptoms while also allowing your mouth to heal. However, for this treatment to be successful, your gum disease must be detected early through regular oral exams.
How Does Scaling and Root Planing Work?
Root planing and scaling are always performed at the same visit, usually immediately after a cleaning and exam. These techniques have to be used together to achieve results because one makes way for the other. Scaling is performed first and is completed with a metal handheld tool that looks similar to a small hook.
Our professional uses a tool to scrape built-up plaque and tartar off of your teeth. They will reach below the gum line and remove tartar from this portion of your enamel as well. Tartar is the hardened form of plaque and forms as a result of poor brushing and flossing practices.
Once your scaling is complete, our professional will use this same tool to plane or smooth out the roots of each tooth. As with scaling, this is done by reaching below your gum line and gently moving the tool across your roots. The purpose of this part of the treatment is to ensure that there are no obstructions between your gums and roots.
By removing the plaque and tartar, our team can stop the spread of infection, which should also result in a reduction in inflammation. Over time, your gums will also reconnect with the roots of your teeth and completely heal. For this to occur, you have to make recommended adjustments to your brushing and flossing practices because new build-up will hinder the healing process.
How Often Will I Need Treatment?
While the root planing and scaling treatments are performed during regular dental exams, our team may recommend that you receive the treatment more frequently than every six months. This recommendation is based on how severe your gum disease is at the time of treatment. If you need more frequent scaling and planing, our team will need to see you every three months for a short time until your condition is controlled.
Once your gum disease is resolved, it is important that you continue practicing good oral hygiene and receiving regular dental exams. Doing so will allow our team to discover any new build-up early and resume root planing and scaling, if necessary. The sooner you are treated, the easier it is for you to keep your teeth healthy and avoid surgical interventions.
Gum Disease Treatment in McMinnville
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or are looking for a dental care team that you can trust, our professionals at Willamette Valley Periodontics can help. Contact us at (971) 261-1926 today to schedule an appointment!
