Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling is the removal of harmful plaque and calculus on the enamel, outer surface of your teeth. Root planing is continuing the process below the gumline to smooth out the roots of your teeth. By smoothing the root, healing will be accelerated, and any development of additional bacteria will be significantly reduced.

Scaling and root planing is a quite common procedure if you have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the inflammation of soft tissue caused by the bacteria in the plaque. If left untreated, the periodontal disease can result in deterioration of the jawbone and even loss of teeth.

Beginning with your first visit with Periodontal and Implants Associates, Inc., our entire dental team is committed to establishing a relationship with you, acknowledging your unique individual needs, and striving effortlessly to provide personalized oral health care to meet your goals.

We focus on creating the ultimate stress-free and comfortable dental experience. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we will do what is necessary to help you understand your symptoms and your treatment options in a relaxed environment. Call Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at (256) 734-8588 with any questions or to make an appointment for a scaling and root planing procedure.

If Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. has diagnosed you with gum disease, we will schedule a professional teeth cleaning followed by a scaling and root planing treatment. During this procedure, the plaque, which is the sole source of the disease, will be removed, allowing the gums to heal and the pockets around the teeth to return to normal. Periodontal therapy refers to a variety of non-surgical and surgical techniques that treat periodontal disease, which begins as an infection or inflammation of the gums and can cause jawbone deterioration. Scaling and root planing can be a beneficial solution if you are looking for a long-term answer for improving the health and aesthetic appearance of your smile.

The Types of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive problem that will increase in severity. Most patients we treat at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. develop gum disease in the following order:

Gingivitis

The first level of periodontitis, gingivitis, develops from bacterial plaque that accumulates next to the gums. The symptoms are sensitive gums that are red, puffy, and bleed easily. This stage can be easily stymied and reversed with a professional cleaning and your improved at-home oral health care habits, but if not addressed quickly, it will advance into the next stage.

Early Periodontitis

Early periodontitis is caused by the continued accumulation of plaque. Early periodontitis is like gingivitis, just more severe. The gums become painful and more sensitive, and your brushing and flossing cause your gums to bleed. Early periodontitis now requires more intensive interventions.

Advanced Periodontitis

When plaque has accumulated to the point that gum tissue is being destroyed, you have advanced periodontitis. If it has reached this point, small pockets around your teeth swell, which accelerates the damage as they accumulate even more bacteria. These pockets expanding causes the gums to recede. These recessions can now result in bone loss.

Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing

A professional teeth cleaning at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will improve your overall health. Benefits include the following:

Prevent Cavities

Plaque that accumulates on your teeth inevitably destroys the enamel. Plaque is the primary source of decay, and cavities left untreated increase the likelihood of needing a tooth extraction. By scheduling scaling and root planing, you can preserve good oral health.

Prevents Halitosis

If you are dealing with gum disease, you can develop issues related to bad breath. A benefit of scaling and root planing is the elimination of this issue.

Prevents Gum Disease

No plaque, no inflammation of the gums. Regular cleaning and scaling prevent gum disease from ever developing.

Can Reduce Likelihood of a Heart Attack or Stroke

The excess bacteria that collect in your mouth from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and increase your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Research has proven that suffering from gum disease doubles the risk of a heart attack. You are also at an elevated risk of having a stroke.

Reduces Risk of Diabetes

A direct correlation exists between gum disease and diabetes. If you have diabetes, you are more vulnerable to gum disease. In reverse, if you have gum disease, you are more at risk of having issues regulating your blood glucose levels, which results in diabetes.

Your Proper Oral Hygiene Will Extend the Longevity of The Scaling and Root Planing

To extend the benefits of your scaling and root planing procedure, continue to exercise your good oral hygiene habits every day.

Brush Twice Daily

Brush twice a day and use proper brushing technique. In addition to brushing regularly for two minutes each time, brush effectively. Our staff at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will answer questions about proper brushing techniques.

Floss Daily

If you do not care to floss, you might consider an alternative, like an interdental brush or floss pick.

Be Mindful of Your Diet

A straightforward way to help prevent dental problems from developing is to avoid too much sugar or starch. If you drink soft drinks or sugary beverages, consider using a straw to minimize the exposure of sugar to your teeth. It is beneficial to swish your mouth with water after meals. This dislodges food remnants that will create problems.

Schedule Regular Dental Exams

Dental issues can easily develop. It is essential to be preventative and visit Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. every six months. With us performing a professional cleaning and scaling, and root planing, diagnosing any issues before they progress, these simple regular checkups can be critical to maintaining your oral health.

We Change Lives One Smile at a Time

It is our mission at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. to educate and provide every patient with the best periodontal and dental care found in Alabama. The attention to detail by our entire dental team achieves quality and successful dental results with healthy and beautiful smiles for all patients. We collaborate to realize a shared vision of excellence. We are committed to:

  • Listening to those we have the opportunity to serve.
  • Earn the trust and respect of every patient, profession, and community.
  • Exceeding your expectations.
  • Ensure a creative, challenging, and compassionate professional environment.
  • Striving for continuous improvement at all levels.

You can find Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at 315 Second St. SE, Cullman, AL, 35055. Or give us a call today at (256) 734-8588.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

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