Gum disease can lead to a wide range of health issues, including tooth loss. Luckily, periodontics provides a variety of treatment options to address this condition. Periodontal scaling provides cleaning below the gumline to thoroughly tackle gum disease. Here’s what you need to know about this deep-cleaning treatment.

What is periodontal scaling?

Periodontal scaling is an effective periodontal therapy option for dealing with early-to-mid-stage gum disease. It’s also commonly referred to as “deep cleaning,” taking the basic principles of professional teeth cleaning and targeting areas below the gumline.

Plaque and tartar deposits can form below the gumline, providing a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause gum disease. Properly clearing them away requires special tools that can reach below the gumline. As gum disease progresses, it causes the gum tissue to recede and form pockets, which allows plaque and tartar to penetrate even deeper.

Scaling and root planing are typically carried out at the same time to ensure lasting results. Scaling removes plaque and tartar, while planing provides lasting protection. The planing process involves smoothing the surface of teeth below the gumline to make it more difficult for deposits to take hold.

The Signs You Might Need Scaling

If you find yourself searching for “why are my gums bleeding,” then gum disease is one of the prime candidates. Bleeding gums are among the most prominent signs of gum disease. However, there are other signs to watch out for other than gums bleeding.

Bad breath is a hallmark of gum disease and often the earliest symptom to appear. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it can often be treated with simple improvements to your oral hygiene routine. Depending on how far the condition has progressed, periodontal scaling may or may not be the right choice.

Gum recession is a sign of more advanced gum disease that certainly calls for periodontal scaling. You might notice your gums visibly peeling away from your teeth, forming pockets, or unbalancing your smile. As gum disease progresses further, you might even notice teeth becoming loose.

The Process of Periodontal Scaling

Periodontal scaling is a relatively straightforward and minimally invasive treatment option. The first step is verifying whether gum disease is the issue at hand. Your dentist might identify signs of gum disease during your routine visits or an evaluation if you come in for a specific issue.

The process itself may or may not require local anesthesia, depending on the depth of gum pockets and your own needs. Your dentist will use a variety of scaling tools to reach deep beneath the gumline and remove plaque and tartar. These fine tools can penetrate the incredibly tight space.

After scaling, a similar process is carried out using another set of tools for root planing. However, these tools are designed to smooth the tooth surfaces rather than simply removing plaque and tartar. The entire area has a thorough cleaning and rinse afterward to reduce the risk of gum disease recurrence.

The Benefits of Periodontal Scaling

Periodontal scaling provides a wide range of benefits for patients. It is a highly effective treatment option that improves gum disease prevention in the long run. You’ll be less likely to develop plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline again, especially when paired with consistent oral hygiene routines at home.

Stopping gum disease from progressing safeguards your oral health. Gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss, which has a permanent impact on the appearance and function of your smile. Reducing bacteria levels improves overall oral health and also protects against cavities and tooth decay.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Periodontal scaling is minimally invasive, so there isn’t any real recovery period afterward. You shouldn’t experience any serious post-treatment side effects. Using an antibacterial mouthwash and brushing gently around the gumline for the first few days can help ensure the best long-term outcome.

Make sure to keep up with proper brushing and flossing. While scaling and root planing do reduce your risk of future gum disease, you must remain vigilant. Along with your oral hygiene routine, additional tips to prevent gum disease include staying hydrated with frequent water consumption throughout the day, limiting sugary and acidic foods, and keeping up with routine dental checkups.

Ask your dentist in Lawton, Oklahoma, about periodontal scaling today.

Have you noticed any signs of gum disease, such as bad breath, gum bleeding, or others? Don’t hesitate to reach out to your trusted dentist in Lawton, Oklahoma, for periodontal therapy. At Sheppard Family Dental Care, we’ll evaluate your condition and find the right treatment for you. Schedule an evaluation today to protect yourself against gum disease.