What Is Scaling And Root Planing (Procedure And Aftercare)

You might be wondering what is scaling and root planing. This type of dental treatment or deep cleaning is done to patients that are suffering from periodontal disease. Bacteria infected teeth and gum line is the most common reason why chronic periodontal disease occurs. This experienced Eastwood dentist suggests to book a check-up regularly to prevent harmful bacterias from inducing damage to the gums.

 

Difference Between Scaling And Root Planing

To fully understand this procedure, let us first identify the difference between scaling and root planing. Scaling is also known as deep cleaning of the teeth and gum line. This is the initial process of treating general dental problems. Scaling is usually done with the help of anesthesia, this is to aid the patient from any discomfort during the procedure, most especially those who have receding gum lines.

The teeth scaling process will include scraping or removal of tartar and plaque from the teeth and gums. Before proceeding to any additional dental treatment, your dentist will make sure that your whole mouth is thoroughly cleaned and plaque-free. This is an essential step in reattaching the falling gums back to the teeth.

Root planing will take place after scaling. When the dentist finds your mouth thoroughly cleaned and ready for the next step, the process of smoothening the rough surfaces in the teeth and roots will begin. This will give way to the gums as they attach themselves to the teeth firmly.

Follow up checkups will then be scheduled so the dentist can determine if the gum line is healing and the gap between the teeth and gums are not accumulating particles and bacteria. If your gums are reacting accordingly to the treatment, the pockets will get smaller, bleeding will become lesser, and the swelling will subside subsequently.

However, if you are suffering from severe periodontal disease, scaling and root planing may not be enough. Depending on the extremity of your condition, other dental treatments may be conducted as well.

 

Aftercare

To secure the success of deep cleaning, consistent oral cleaning, and maintenance are highly recommended. At this point, the bleeding and swelling of the gums will start to decrease. Here are a few things to remember after the scaling and root planing of your teeth.

• Pain and discomfort will occur for 1 to 2 days. This is usually triggered when you chew and drink hot or cold beverages. Your dentist will prescribe a medication to lessen the pain, Acetaminophen and non-aspirin analgesics are the common drugs prescribed for this condition.
• You can continue brushing your teeth despite feeling uncomfortable. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are recommended since the bristles are not too stiff and will not add pain to your healing gums.
• Flossing is advised as well. If the treated area is too sensitive for you to touch, you can avoid it in the meantime. You can floss around your healthy teeth to keep them clean and sparkly.
• Mouthwashes that have fluoride are going to save you from bacteria. This product is designed to fight off bacterias and wash off parts of the mouth that toothbrushes cannot reach.

Things To Avoid After The treatment

• Do not do anything that your dentist specifically asked you not to do. This is a case to case basis. Your dentist knows your oral health well enough to know the things that will cause more harm to your dental condition.
• Extreme physical activities or gym workouts are strictly prohibited. Rest for at least one week before engaging in doing activities that will require you to exert force. Weightlifting and carrying heavy objects will slow down the healing process.
• Avoid hot and cold foods or beverages. Hot and cold sensitivity will only trigger the feeling of discomfort. If you wish to have a more comfortable healing procedure, prevent yourself from eating ice creams and hot choco for a while.
• Hard foods like popcorn, peanuts, and corn are also forbidden. If the treated area gets forced because of hard to chew foods, sudden excruciating pain may occur and the healing may get disrupted. Bleeding might also take place and your gums that are slowly attaching themselves to the teeth might fall off.
• Do not smoke cigarettes and tobacco 2 days after the procedure. Quitting this habit is much recommended after all. Not smoking will help the blood clots to develop quickly making the healing process move faster as well. This will also lessen the risk of the healing getting disrupted.
• Stay away from alcoholic drinks for at least one day after the scaling and root planing or if you are still under medication. Alcohol will slow down the healing process and may contradict the effects of your prescribed medication.

 

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

If your dentist recommended scaling and root planing as a part of your dental treatment, that goes to show that you are suffering from periodontal disease. This condition takes place if oral health was not taken care of. It causes the teeth and gums to collect tartar which results in hardened plaque. Over time, bacteria build-up will start to infect the gum lines and bring it to a point of recession.

Listed below are the common factors that contribute to periodontal disease;

1. Incorrect brushing and floss habit.
2. Consistent use of cigarettes and tobacco.
3. Frequently consuming sugary foods.
4. Side effects of disease medication.
5. Cracked teeth.
6. Inflammation

The periodontal disease gradually develops, in early cases, its occurrence is not very much noticeable. Visit your dentist immediately if these symptoms and signs occur;

1. Gums are starting to get swollen
2. Bleeding around the gum line
3. Receding gums are visible
4. Foul breath odor
5. The gap between the teeth and gums are starting to show up

The only way to prevent dental periodontal disease is by maintaining a good oral habit, the usual steps like brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and regular dental checkups will help you achieve a healthy dental state. As a matter of fact, scaling and root planing can be avoided if you undergo professional dental cleaning twice a year.