Scaling and Root Planing in Richardson, TX
If you’ve developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning will not be adequate to return your mouth to good health. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This non-surgical procedure removes built-up tartar and plaque from the teeth, cleans bacteria out of the gum pockets, and smooths the root surfaces of your teeth. If you’re worried about your gums, find out more about scaling and root planing at Smile Blvd Dental in Richardson, TX.
BEST CANDIDATES FOR SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
At your dental examination, we will check to see how deep your gum pockets are. If your pocket depths are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing (SRP) therapy may be recommended. SRP helps decrease the depth of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the first stage of periodontal disease (gingivitis). Some signs of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, in addition to gums that are swollen, tender, bleed easily, look red, or are receding. When gum disease is caught early, one or more scaling and root planing treatments can reverse the problem. However, when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you may need more advanced treatments.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
SRP is a deep cleaning procedure performed at Smile Blvd Dental using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. Your comfort is important to us, so we offer inhalation sedation (laughing gas) to help you relax during treatment. Once your teeth and gums are numb, an ultrasonic sonic scaler and special instruments are used to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth ( above and below the gum line) and smooth the root surface. This is often followed by an antibacterial rinse to disinfect the area and promote tissue healing. Our board-certified hygienist will help you learn how to keep your teeth cleaner and your gums healthier with an effective home care regimen.
RECOVERY FROM SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
Following your SRP therapy, you might experience greater tooth sensitivity and gum tenderness in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. You should follow a good oral hygiene regimen at home with daily flossing and brushing to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. Four to six weeks after the SRP procedure, you will return to Smile Blvd Dental for a fine scale and polish appointment. By this time, most of the swelling from the periodontal disease will have been reduced. Following treatment for periodontal disease, it is recommended to maintain a three to four month recare schedule to closely monitor the health of your gum tissue and keep the tartar cleaned from the tooth surface. You should also schedule bi-annual dental examinations so Dr. Porter can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums.
SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
Gum disease may become painful and dangerous for your health. Research has shown that the bacteria found in periodontal disease can increase the risk factors associated with heart disease. If you’re having symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Smile Blvd Dental in Richardson, TX. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected using a very simple SRP process at Robert L. Porter Dentistry. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more information.
INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that’s usually paid for in part by dental insurance. We will get in touch with your insurance provider to determine your policy coverage. If you don’t have dental insurance, a team member at Smile Blvd Dental will discuss payment methods accepted, including low-interest dental financing.
