Scaling and Root Planing in Chandler, AZ

Periodontal disease is caused by an excessive buildup of bacterial plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, saliva, and bacteria. As the plaque hardens, toxins are released from the bacteria causing the gums (soft tissue) to become irritated. The soft tissues around the teeth become increasingly damaged with the progression of the disease, as does the hard tissue or bone that supports the teeth.

A significant portion of the adult population have periodontal disease and don't know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. Whether your gum disease is stopped, slowed, or gets worse depends a great deal on how well you care for your teeth and gums every day, from this point forward.

Nearly 70% of adult tooth loss can be attributed to gum disease. Research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease or stopping it if you are already suffering from some of the following symptoms:

• Pus around the teeth and gums
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• New spacing between teeth

If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is typically corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure performed by Dr. Troy Gombert to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment cleans under the gumline, then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you're worried about your gums, ask about SRP by Dr. Gombert in Chandler, AZ.

At your dental examination, Dr. Gombert will assess how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets (also called sulcus) are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy could be recommended. SRP can help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the very first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of the early signs of periodontal disease are loose teeth, in addition to gums that are are tender, swollen, bleed easily, look red, or have begun to recede. When periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more scaling and root planing therapies can improve signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive therapies.

SRP is a deep cleaning that may be carried out in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling stressed about having SRP. Dr. Gombert will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. He will subsequently plane or smooth the outside of the enamel to decrease the number of regions where tartar and plaque may collect to avoid future problems.

Following your SRP therapy, you might have greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Gombert can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should adhere to a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing, to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You also ought to schedule yearly dental examinations so Dr. Gombert can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as bi-annual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based upon the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need several more scaling and root planing procedures to totally restore your gums.

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that's generally paid for in part by dental insurance. Our team will get in touch with your provider to find out your policy and individual expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, Dr. Troy Gombert takes numerous payments, including low-interest financing, which may be explained in your appointment.

Does scaling and root planing hurt?

Scaling and root planing can cause some discomfort, but the procedure is typically well-tolerated by most patients. Local anesthesia and sedation options may be used based on your level of sensitivity or anxiety. Rest assured that our dental team will do everything possible to ensure your comfort.

Can I eat after scaling and root planing?

We recommend that you wait until the numbness from the local anesthesia wears off before eating. Though there are no meal restrictions after scaling and root planing, you may want to avoid hard or crunchy foods right away as your gums may be sensitive. Dr. Gombert can provide specific instructions based on your case.

How often do I need scaling and root planing?

The frequency of scaling and root planing depends on the severity of your gum disease and how well you care for your teeth at home. Many patients in Chandler, AZ, only require one treatment, while others need additional procedures to fully restore their gums. Our dental staff will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.

Periodontal disease may become dangerous and painful for your health, so if you're showing symptoms, then please schedule an appointment with Dr. Gombert at his office in Chandler, AZ. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is normally corrected using a very simple SRP process at our facility. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.