Is Scaling and Root Planing Effective for Periodontal Disease?

Professional dental cleanings are an essential part of preventive dental care. Cleanings allow patients to maintain a healthy smile that lasts for years. However, some people need a deeper cleaning to address harmful bacteria and plaque. Patients with gum disease may need an alternative treatment called scaling and root planing in Worcester, MA.

Gum and periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss without the right approach. Now you can learn about the benefits of nonsurgical gum disease treatment from the professionals at Northeast Periodontal Specialists. We can explain how this simple procedure works when you come in for an assessment with our periodontists. Our team is proud to preserve the health of your smile.

Gum and periodontal disease

Periodontists are trained to check your mouth for signs of disease and decay. During a dental cleaning, we assess your teeth as well as the soft tissues of the gums, cheeks, and tongue. The gums are especially important because they protect your teeth and prevent harmful bacteria from affecting the underlying bone.

Sometimes, plaque mixes with bacteria and sticks to your teeth, which irritates the surrounding gums. You may even notice some redness or bleeding. Brushing and flossing may not necessarily solve this issue. This is the first stage of gum disease, also called gingivitis. Patients may require nonsurgical gum disease treatment to address this problem.

Symptoms of gum disease

Any changes in your oral health should be reported to our clinic. Northeast Periodontal Specialists can perform an examination to make sure your teeth and soft tissues are undamaged. We may also take x-rays to examine the jawbone. If you show any of the following symptoms, contact a periodontist right away in Worcester, MA:

• Chronic bad breath

• Bleeding or sensitive gums

• Red or swollen gums

• A receding gumline

• Evidence of bone loss

Scaling and root planing explained

Gum disease causes the soft tissues around the teeth to become infected. Your gums may even pull away from the tooth surfaces. Bacteria and plaque begin to accumulate in these periodontal pockets. Scaling and root planing is performed to clean out these pockets and make sure the gums stick to the teeth more effectively. The specialists at Northeast Periodontal Specialists use advanced tools to perform gum disease treatment at our office. We usually recommend this treatment after your initial examination.

How scaling and root planing is performed

Scaling is performed using a special ultrasonic scaling tool. An irrigation process may also deliver an antimicrobial agent to reduce oral bacteria below the gumline. Root planing removes unwanted microorganisms, cementum, and surface dentin. The root of the tooth becomes smoother, which prevents new bacteria from forming. Deep periodontal pockets can make it challenging to completely remove plaque and tartar. However, our office can let you know whether you require surgery or further treatment to improve your oral health.

Nonsurgical gum disease treatment

Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss among adults in Worcester, MA. This is why it is so critical for patients to seek gum disease treatment as soon as symptoms are noticed. If you think you could benefit from scaling and root planing, meet with our caring team. Schedule your appointment with a trained periodontist at Northeast Periodontal Specialists.