The Importance of Scaling and Root Planing

Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, starts with a little bleeding while flossing. After that, the gums will turn red and swollen with a little bit of tenderness. If this disease is caught early, it is easily treatable. However, leaving it untreated can lead to bad breath, a terrible taste in your mouth, receding gums and loose teeth—signs that gum disease has already advanced. Once this happens, we at Wauwatosa Dental Arts highly recommended scaling and root planing to be performed.

Defining scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a dental procedure that provides a thorough cleaning of the teeth. Scaling will be performed on the surface of your teeth which is usually done using a metal dental tool. Meanwhile, others use an ultrasonic device instead. Root planing, on the other hand, is performed under the surface of the gums close the root. The process smoothens the surface and reduces inflammation of the gums.

Why is this a necessary procedure?

The severity of surgery is reduced

Once gum disease has progressed into periodontitis, surgery may be required to get rid of the infection. Your dentist will perform scaling and root planing before the surgical procedure to lessen the severity of the surgery.

Gets rid of plaque

Despite the practice of regular brushing, plaque can remain on your teeth. Plaque can harden and push on your gums—causing inflammation and after some time, infection. The procedure behind scaling and root planing can remove even the most stubborn plaque, reducing the inflammation.

Prevents further gum damage

Parts of your mouth and even your body are at risk if gum disease progresses beyond gingivitis. If this happens, your teeth could become infected, and the chance of losing them increases. Even the jawbone could begin to deteriorate. With the help of scaling and root planing, the healing process begins.

Get rid of plaque effectively with Scaling and Root Planing in Wauwatosa, WI. We, at Wauwatosa Dental Arts, are ready to provide the most effective procedures for our valued patients. Call or find us at 11600 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa, WI 53226 to avail of this treatment!