Scaling and Root Planing - Merrimack, NH
The Foundation of Comprehensive Gum Treatment
Considered to be one of the most controllable forms of inflammation in the United States, gum disease affects millions of people every single day, and many more throughout the rest of the world. While gum disease can become so serious that it causes teeth to fall out, there are numerous treatments out there today that work to prevent that from happening. This includes scaling and root planing, which is the first line of defense against advanced forms of periodontitis (a more severe form of gum disease.) Call our office to schedule an appointment with our dentists and get treated today!
How Do I Know If I Need Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is typically performed when a patient’s gum tissue has begun to exhibit multiple issues that no amount of at-home brushing or traditional dental cleaning can resolve. This includes:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss (particularly for multiple days in a row)
- Changes in the position of your teeth
- Teeth that feel loose
- Receding gums
- Red, tender or swollen gums
- Pain while chewing
How Does Scaling and Root Planing Work?
Scaling and root planing occurs in two stages. The first step that is performed is scaling, and this involves breaking down plaque and tartar from all areas of enamel. It especially focuses on enamel covered by gum tissue, an area that cannot be reached with brushing or flossing. Once this treatment is complete, we can begin root planing.
Root planing involves smoothing out the root portions of teeth and removing bacteria, which makes it more difficult for gum disease to come back later on. Both of these treatments will need to be performed over the course of three to four visits a year so that the infection can be put under control.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
When you complete scaling and root planing, you’re not just removing the tenderness and sensitivity from your gums. You’re also preventing tooth decay from developing further and preventing the periodontal pockets that tend to form in between your teeth from growing larger. The larger these pockets become, the easier it is for food debris and plaque to get trapped and continue growing inside the mouth. Scaling and root planing work to prevent both of these issues from getting worse.
Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
The cost of treatment for scaling and root planing mainly depends on how extensive your gum infection actually is. During your examination, we’ll confirm what needs to be done ahead of time so that you have a clear idea of what the price of your treatment will be. Regardless of what it costs, we’re always happy to discuss financing options with you and help create a treatment plan that’s within your budget.
